The Ohio State men’s basketball team is off for a few weeks and according to head coach Chris Holtmann, they’ve all been sent home to spend time with family.
That also includes incoming freshman center Ibrahima Diallo who is from Senegal and hasn’t seen his family in three years.
Diallo decided to surprise his family and a snippet of the moment was captured and Holtmann shared it on Twitter.
You can see the video below.
Diallo was a late addition to Ohio State’s 2019 recruiting class, joining forwards EJ Liddell and Alonzo Gaffney, and point guard DJ Carton.
As a senior, Diallo played for Prolific Prep in California where he averaged 11 points, 11 rebounds, and nearly four blocks per game. He signed his OSU letter of intent in April.
At the time, Holtmann said Diallo brings necessary size and potential to the Buckeyes.
“Ibrahima is a terrific young man and young big with upside and potential,” he said. “He has been coached well and has played against quality competition. His measurables speak for themselves but we were also really struck by his maturity in the recruiting process. As with most freshmen, especially bigs, we understand there will be a process to his development. Having said that, we are really excited about what his future holds.”
Diallo’s maturity has been a must throughout his basketball career, which took him away from home at an early age.
And as you can see below, his family was happy to have him back.
The fellas are getting a few weeks back home to give all their great Mom’s a big hug. Ibrahima decided to surprise his family in Senegal. It’s been over 3 yrs since he’s seen his family. Special moment! pic.twitter.com/rhdPOPHens
— Chris Holtmann (@ChrisHoltmann) July 31, 2019
Thanks for sharing this great moment. The
human emotion is universal. I’m excited about
his potential as well.
Precious moments are stirred, not shaken.
Rejoiced in, not counted.