Impressions of Ousmane: What UK players think of their intriguing new teammate

A Kentucky basketball staff member who’s been in the practice gym with dozens of future NBA players over the years was rattling off opinions on Mark Pope’s current roster when the conversation turned to perhaps the most intriguing Wildcat of all.

How has Ousmane N’Diaye looked since arriving on campus earlier this year?

The question was met with a knowing grin.

“He could be good,” the UK staffer said. “He could be really good.”

A long list of what he does well followed that early endorsement.

N’Diaye — a 7-footer from Senegal with three years of pro basketball experience in Europe — has apparently been lights out on corner 3-pointers. He runs the floor like a gazelle. He’s a better ball-handler than expected. And the physical tools, namely his unique blend of length and athleticism, are clear within five minutes of watching him move around on the court.

But it wasn’t all sunshine pumping.