By Ron P. Coderre

Putnam Science Academy basketball coach Tom Espinosa unveiled his newest recruit this week with the announcement that Hamidou Diallo, a 15-year-old, 6-foot, 3-inch shooting guard, will join what appears to be another outstanding recruiting class for the Mustangs.

Diallo, who comes from Queens, N.Y., will be an academic sophomore at the Putnam campus.  Although he’s very young, Diallo has significant basketball experience and is described as growing and maturing as a player.  He is a product of the New York City Finest Basketball Academy and plays during the AAU season with the NYC Jayhawks 17u.

The dynamic shooting guard led his last high school John Browne in Flushing, N.Y., with 19 points, seven rebounds and two assists per game in 2013-2014.  His season high was a 28- point performance versus Bedford Academy, which included five three-pointers and four assists.

“We’re excited to have Diallo join our program.  As an incoming sophomore he’ll be with us for three years, giving him an opportunity to develop his leadership skills, while also honing his academic and basketball skills,” said coach Espinosa.

Since he’s been playing competitive basketball Diallo has been recognized for his exceptional ability on the court, winning a number of Most Valuable Player awards.  In 2012 he was the MVP of the St. John the Baptist High School Holiday Classic, N.Y.C.H.A. Citywide Classic MVP in 2013 and the 16u AAU Most Valuable Player.  

The young man with a high basketball IQ, great wingspan and versatility has already been attracting the attention of colleges.  While playing with the Jayhawks he received an offer from Fairfield University of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) at the Hoop Group Elite Camp.  He also received interest from Cal State – Bakersfield of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) while showcasing his talent in the Live in Atlantic City Tournament in New Jersey.  He’s been featured in the NERR 75, NYC Hoops and HoopGroup.

“Diallo is a gym rat who has an appetite for the game.  He’s a player who finds a way to make things happen on the court.  He’s a very clutch player who enjoys the competitive environment of basketball.  In the next stage of his career with us he’ll continue to work on his academic progress as well as his personal and athletic growth,” said Espinosa.

Espinosa’s latest recruit joins previously recruited players, Kaelan Ives, Tim Quashi, twins Aaron and Andrew Robinson, Brendan Wagner, Vincent Eze, Dondre Rhoden and Taylor Smith.  The Mustangs also return 6-8 Mamadou Diarra from last year’s 29-5 team.  Diarra and Diallo played AAU basketball with the Jayhawks together this summer.