🏀 Grounded by Faith and Family: How BYU Forward Dominique Diomande Is Driven to Excel in Provo
When BYU’s newest addition, Dominique Diomande, steps onto the court this fall, he will do so carrying more than just athletic ambition—he’ll bring a story fueled by his Muslim faith and the enduring legacy of his late father.
Originally from Tours, France, the 6’7″ forward joined BYU after showcasing his talents at Washington and on the professional stage in France. His resume—highlighted by a U21 average of 16 points and six rebounds per game—turned heads. Coach Kevin Young praised Diomande as “an elite-level defender” whose athleticism and fit are ideal for BYU’s system .
But Diomande’s journey isn’t measured only in stats. He is also part of a small but growing contingent of Muslim athletes at BYU, where he has spoken about finding acceptance within a faith‑centered environment . For Muslim players like Aly Khalifa, Fousseyni Traore, and Atiki Ally Atiki, BYU’s religious values reflect parallels to their own discipline-filled lifestyles—fostering respect and a sense of belonging .
Even more personal is Diomande’s motivation to honor his late father, who first introduced him to the values of hard work and commitment. Though Diomande has not publicly detailed his father’s passing, he has alluded to the source of his resilience: a dream to continue what his father began. On BYU’s new hardwood, he seeks not only to win games, but to carry his father’s spirit with every rebound and block.
As BYU transitions into the Big 12, Diomande’s arrival brings not just depth and defense, but a powerful narrative. He embodies a rare intersection: an international athlete rooted in faith, driven by family, and eager to contribute to something greater than himself.
