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Mo Bamba

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For the song, see Mo Bamba (song). For the Ivorian footballer, see Mohamed Bamba (footballer).

Mo Bamba
Bamba with the Orlando Magic in 2019.
No. 4 – Los Angeles Clippers
PositionCenter
LeagueNBA
Personal information
Born (1998-05-12) May 12, 1998 (age 26)
New York City, New York, U.S.
NationalityAmerican / Ivorian
Listed height7 ft 0 in (2.13 m)
Listed weight231 lb (105 kg)
Career information
High school
CollegeTexas (2017–2018)
NBA draft2018: 1st round, 6th overall pick
Selected by the Orlando Magic
Playing career2017–present
Career history
2018–2023Orlando Magic
2023Los Angeles Lakers
2023–2024Philadelphia 76ers
2024–presentLos Angeles Clippers
2024→San Diego Clippers
Career highlights and awards
Stats at NBA.com Edit this at Wikidata
Stats at Basketball Reference Edit this at Wikidata
Medals
Men's basketball
Representing the  United States
FIBA Americas U18 Championship
Gold medal – first place 2016 Chile National team

Mohamed Fakaba Bamba[1] (born May 12, 1998) is an American-Ivorian professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Clippers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Texas Longhorns. He was highly regarded by scouts due to his 7 ft 10 in (2.39 m) wingspan. He attended Cardigan Mountain School in Canaan, New Hampshire, and Westtown School in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and was considered one of the top high school prospects for the class of 2017.

Early life

[edit]

Bamba was born on May 12, 1998, in Harlem, New York to Lancine Bamba and Aminata Johnson, who both emigrated from the Ivory Coast.[2][3][4] Bamba's grandparents were born and brought up in present-day Mali.[3] His older brother, Sidiki Johnson, played college basketball at Arizona, Providence, and Wabash Valley.[5] Another member of his family, estranged brother Ibrahim Johnson, also played college basketball at multiple universities, including both Farmingdale State and Montevallo.[6][7] Bamba first became interested in basketball at age six, inspired by the game's popularity in his hometown.[3]

High school career

[edit]
Bamba at the 2017 McDonald's All-American Boys Game

In eighth and ninth grade, Bamba attended Cardigan Mountain School, an all-boys boarding school in Canaan, New Hampshire.[3]

After graduating from Cardigan, Bamba went on to Westtown School in Westtown, Pennsylvania.[3][8] As a junior he averaged 14 points, 11 rebounds, and six blocks per game. He played in the 2017 McDonald's All American Game and the Nike Hoop Summit.[9][10]

Bamba was rated as a five-star recruit and was ranked among the top recruits in his class.[11][12] His final four schools were Kentucky, Duke, Texas and Michigan.[13][14][15][16] Ultimately, Bamba chose to play for the University of Texas for his college career. Before playing a single game for Texas, his half-brother Ibrahim Johnson posted a 22-minute-long video on Facebook Live, talking about how there were some illegal benefits from a Michigan-based investor involved during the decision-making and that he was reporting the information to the NCAA.[17] However, the NCAA reported that nothing involved there would ultimately affect Bamba's eligibility for his freshman season.[18]

US college sports recruiting information for high school athletes
Name Hometown High school / college Height Weight Commit date
Mo Bamba
C 		Harlem, N.Y. Westtown School 7 ft 1 in (2.16 m) 216 lb (98 kg) May 18, 2017 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout:5/5 stars   Rivals:5/5 stars   247Sports:5/5 stars    ESPN:5/5 stars   ESPN grade: 96
Overall recruiting rankings: Scout: 2, 1 (C)   Rivals: 2, 1 (C)  ESPN: 3, 2 (C), 1 (NY)
  • Note: In many cases, Scout, Rivals, 247Sports, and ESPN may conflict in their listings of height and weight.
  • In these cases, the average was taken. ESPN grades are on a 100-point scale.

Sources:

College career

[edit]

Bamba made his official college debut on November 10, 2017, against Northwestern State, recording 15 points and eight rebounds in a blowout win that night. Eight days later, he recorded 13 points, 10 rebounds, and five blocks in a blowout win against Lipscomb. On December 30, Bamba recorded a season-high 22 points, 15 rebounds, and eight blocks in a loss to Kansas. On New Year's Day 2018, Bamba would record a then-season-high 16 rebounds with 10 points in a 74–70 overtime win over Iowa State. He would record a new career-high in points scored with 25 points scored with 15 rebounds in an 85–72 win over Ole Miss on January 27, 2018, five days after recording his previous high of 24 points in a win over Iowa State. On February 17, Bamba would record a new career-high of 18 rebounds with 10 points scored in a 77–66 win over #23 ranked Oklahoma, five days after tying his previous career-high of 16 rebounds with 16 points in a close 74–73 double overtime loss to Baylor. At the end of the regular season for Texas, Bamba was named a member of the Big 12's All-Newcomer Team and All-Defensive Team, as well as being named a member of the All-Big 12 Second Team. He averaged 12.9 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 0.5 assists per game.

Following Texas's loss in the 2018 NCAA men's basketball tournament to Nevada, Bamba announced his intention to forgo his final three seasons of collegiate eligibility and declare for the 2018 NBA draft, where he was expected to be a lottery selection.[19]

Professional career

[edit]

At the 2018 NBA combine, Bamba measured at 7 ft 0 in (2.13 m) tall and measured a 7 ft 10 in (2.39 m) wingspan,[20] breaking the record previously held by Edy Tavares.[21] At a private workout, Bamba reportedly ran faster than most of the NBA, including MVP Russell Westbrook, since he had a 3.04 3/4 court sprint.[22] Bamba refused to work out with the Memphis Grizzlies before the draft, and told them not to draft him.[23]

Orlando Magic (2018–2023)

[edit]

On June 21, 2018, Bamba was selected with the sixth overall pick by the Orlando Magic in the 2018 NBA draft.[24] On July 3, 2018, Bamba officially signed a rookie-scale contract with the Magic.[25] He made his professional debut on October 17, 2018, recording 13 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks off the bench in a 104–101 win over the Miami Heat.[26]

On May 3, 2021, Bamba scored 22 points and grabbed a then-career-high 15 rebounds in 29 minutes off the bench in a 119–112 win over the Detroit Pistons.[27][28]

On October 29, 2021, Bamba grabbed a career-high 18 rebounds and scored 14 points during a 110–109 loss to the Toronto Raptors.[29] On January 19, 2022, Bamba scored a career-high 32 points on seven three-pointers made in a 123–110 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers.[30]

On July 1, 2022, Bamba re-signed with the Magic on a two-year deal.[31] On December 29, he was suspended by the NBA for one game without pay due to coming off the bench during an altercation in a game against the Detroit Pistons the day before.[32] On February 4, 2023, Bamba was suspended by the NBA for four games without pay due to his role in an altercation during a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves the day before. During the altercation, Bamba left the Magic bench area and threw punches at Timberwolves guard Austin Rivers.[33]

Los Angeles Lakers (2023)

[edit]

On February 9, 2023, Bamba was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in a four-team trade involving the Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets.[34][35] On March 5, during a 113–105 win over the Golden State Warriors, he played two minutes before suffering a left ankle injury and leaving the game.[36] Four days later, the Lakers announced that Bamba had been diagnosed with a high left ankle sprain and would be sidelined for at least four weeks.[37] He returned to action on 7 April, playing as a substitute in a game against the Phoenix Suns.

On June 29, 2023, Bamba was waived by the Los Angeles Lakers.[38]

Philadelphia 76ers (2023–2024)

[edit]

On July 9, 2023, Bamba signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers.[39] The Sixers' franchise player Joel Embiid insisted to Bamba that he join his team.[40]

Los Angeles Clippers (2024–present)

[edit]

On July 6, 2024, Bamba signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Clippers.[41]

National team career

[edit]

Because of his Ivorian heritage, Bamba was eligible to play for the Ivory Coast national team. He was on the preliminary roster for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.[42] Bamba was also selected to be on the Olympic Qualifying Tournament roster for the 2024 Summer Olympics.[43] However, Bamba did not make his debut.[44]

Career statistics

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Legend
  GP Games played   GS  Games started  MPG  Minutes per game
 FG%  Field goal percentage  3P%  3-point field goal percentage  FT%  Free throw percentage
 RPG  Rebounds per game  APG  Assists per game  SPG  Steals per game
 BPG  Blocks per game  PPG  Points per game  Bold  Career high

NBA

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Regular season

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Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2018–19 Orlando 47 1 16.3 .481 .300 .587 5.0 .8 .3 1.4 5.1
2019–20 Orlando 62 0 14.2 .462 .346 .674 4.9 .7 .4 1.4 5.4
2020–21 Orlando 46 5 15.8 .472 .322 .682 5.8 .8 .3 1.3 8.0
2021–22 Orlando 71 69 25.7 .480 .381 .781 8.1 1.2 .5 1.7 10.6
2022–23 Orlando 40 6 17.0 .495 .398 .686 4.6 1.1 .3 1.0 7.3
L.A. Lakers 9 1 9.8 .407 .313 .545 4.6 .4 .1 .6 3.7
2023–24 Philadelphia 57 17 13.0 .490 .391 .680 4.2 .7 .4 1.1 4.4
Career 332 99 17.2 .478 .361 .681 5.5 .9 .4 1.3 7.0

Playoffs

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Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2023 L.A. Lakers 3 0 3.4 .000 .000 — 1.0 .3 .0 .3 .0
Career 3 0 3.4 .000 .000 — 1.0 .3 .0 .3 .0

College

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Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2017–18 Texas 29 28 30.2 .603 .280 .678 10.4 .5 .8 3.7 12.9

Personal life

[edit]

During his time growing up in Harlem, Bamba was friends with rapper Sheck Wes. Their relationship would eventually inspire the hit single "Mo Bamba".[45] In October 2020 Mo Bamba's brother, Ibrahim was murdered.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Mo Bamba | Philadelphia 76ers | NBA.com". NBA.com. Retrieved February 26, 2024. Full name is Mohamed Fakaba Bamba
  2. ^ "Mohamed Bamba". USA Basketball. April 11, 2017. Archived from the original on March 28, 2017. Retrieved April 12, 2017.
  3. ^ a b c d e Geoghegan, Neil (February 20, 2017). "Westtown star Mohamed Bamba tries to stay cool as spotlight grows brighter". PA Prep Live. Archived from the original on April 10, 2017. Retrieved April 12, 2017.
  4. ^ Slater, Andrew (July 7, 2016). "Blue Chip: 6'11" 2017 Five-Star Mohamed Bamba". 247Sports.com. Archived from the original on July 9, 2016. Retrieved April 12, 2017.
  5. ^ Calle, Franklyn (August 4, 2016). "The World is His". Slam Online. Archived from the original on May 13, 2017. Retrieved April 12, 2017.
  6. ^ "Farmingdale State Athletics". Farmingdale State Athletics. Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  7. ^ "Exclusive: Elite Texas Commit Mo Bamba's Longtime Mentor Responds To Estranged Brother's Allegations". Archived from the original on August 5, 2017. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  8. ^ "Pa. basketball preview, big men: Westtown's Bamba is among nation's best". December 5, 2016. Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  9. ^ "Mo Bamba on McDonald's All American honor: 'It's an unreal experience. I'm in awe'". January 18, 2017. Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  10. ^ "Bamba, Knox remain undecided heading into Hoop Summit heavy on UK recruits". Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  11. ^ "Rivals.com". n.rivals.com. Archived from the original on April 10, 2017. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  12. ^ "Mohamed Bamba, Texas Longhorns, Power Forward". 247Sports. Archived from the original on July 21, 2017. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  13. ^ "UK in 'good position' with five-star basketball recruit Mohamed Bamba". Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  14. ^ "Mohamed Bamba recruitment seems too close to call". Archived from the original on November 23, 2017. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  15. ^ "UM target Mohamed Bamba taking his time with decision". Archived from the original on August 14, 2017. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  16. ^ "Hoophall Classic 2017 Prospects: Mohamed Bamba, Duke and Kentucky recruit, is top uncommitted player in Class of 2017". January 6, 2017. Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  17. ^ "Mohamed Bamba's brother alleges illegal benefits from Michigan-based investor". June 29, 2017. Archived from the original on June 12, 2018. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  18. ^ "Brother of prized Texas recruit Mohamed Bamba alleges NCAA violations involving financial advisor". June 29, 2017. Archived from the original on April 26, 2018. Retrieved April 27, 2018.
  19. ^ "Mohamed Bamba entering NBA draft after one season". Archived from the original on March 21, 2018. Retrieved March 20, 2018.
  20. ^ "Draft Combine Anthrometric". NBA.com. Retrieved June 14, 2021.
  21. ^ "22 – Walter Tavares". NBADraft.com. April 14, 2014. Retrieved April 13, 2024.
  22. ^ "Mo Bamba faster than Russell Westbrook at NBA Draft workout | Fort Worth Star-Telegram". Archived from the original on June 8, 2018. Retrieved June 9, 2018.
  23. ^ Owens, Jason (June 20, 2018). "Report: Mo Bamba refuses to work out for Grizzlies, tells them not to draft him". Yahoo! Sports. Archived from the original on June 26, 2018. Retrieved June 26, 2018.
  24. ^ "Mo Bamba, known for wingspan, joins Magic as sixth overall pick". ESPN.com. June 21, 2018. Archived from the original on June 25, 2018. Retrieved June 26, 2018.
  25. ^ "Magic Sign Mohamed Bamba". NBA.com. Archived from the original on July 3, 2018. Retrieved July 4, 2018.
  26. ^ "Bamba, Gordon lead Magic over Heat 104-101". ESPN.com. October 17, 2018. Archived from the original on October 18, 2018. Retrieved October 18, 2018.
  27. ^ "Magic's Mo Bamba: Career night off bench". CBSSports.com. May 4, 2021. Retrieved May 4, 2021.
  28. ^ "Mo Bamba's big night leads Magic past Pistons". Reuters. May 4, 2021. Retrieved May 4, 2021.
  29. ^ Mo Bamba - Fills up stat sheet
  30. ^ Guinhawa, Angelo (January 19, 2022). "Mo Bamba's wild stat line vs. Joel Embiid sets Magic record Shaq, Dwight never did". ClutchPoints. Retrieved January 19, 2022.
  31. ^ "Magic, Bamba agree to two-year deal, sources say". ESPN.com. July 1, 2022. Retrieved July 12, 2022.
  32. ^ "NBA announces suspensions from Pistons-Magic game". NBA.com. December 29, 2022. Retrieved December 31, 2022.
  33. ^ "NBA Communications on Twitter: "The following was released by the NBA."". Twitter. Retrieved February 4, 2023.
  34. ^ "Lakers Acquire Mo Bamba and Davon Reed". NBA.com. February 9, 2023.
  35. ^ "Magic Acquire Patrick Beverley, Future Second Round Draft Pick and Cash Considerations as Part of a Four-Team Trade". NBA.com. February 9, 2023. the L.A. Lakers acquire Bamba from Orlando, Davon Reed from Denver, as well as two future second round draft picks (2024 and 2025 selections) from the L.A. Clippers
  36. ^ "Davis leads Lakers past Warriors 113-105 in Curry's return". ESPN. Retrieved March 9, 2023.
  37. ^ "Los Angeles Lakers on Twitter: "Mo Bamba has been evaluated by Lakers team doctors and has been diagnosed with a high left ankle sprain. He will be re-evaluated in approximately four weeks."". Twitter. Retrieved March 9, 2023.
  38. ^ "Lakers Waive Mo Bamba and Shaquille Harrison". NBA.com. Retrieved June 29, 2023.
  39. ^ "Mo Bamba Signs with Sixers". NBA.com. July 9, 2023. Retrieved July 9, 2023.
  40. ^ Keith Pompey (July 12, 2023). "Patrick Beverley says James Harden was a factor in picking the Sixers, and he wants him to stay". inquirer.com.
  41. ^ LAClippers (July 6, 2024). "LA Clippers Sign Mo Bamba". NBA.com. Retrieved July 7, 2024.
  42. ^ "FIBA World Cup 2023: Tracking which NBA players are participating". NBA.com. Retrieved July 29, 2023.
  43. ^ "Mo Bamba leads Cote d'Ivoire's FIBA OQT roster". basketnews.com. Retrieved July 2, 2024.
  44. ^ "Côte d'Ivoire Stats, Games, Results, Rosters, Photos & Videos - FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 San Juan, Puerto Rico | FIBA.basketball". www.fiba.basketball. July 12, 2024. Retrieved July 12, 2024.
  45. ^ Lamarre, Carl (September 10, 2018). "Sheck Wes & Mo Bamba Discuss Their Longtime Friendship & the Success of 'Mo Bamba'". Billboard. Archived from the original on September 28, 2018. Retrieved September 27, 2018.
[edit]
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