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O’Connell & Diarra: The two unlikely heroes saving NC State’s season

Related Topics: Alou Diarra, Kevin Keatts

When Kevin Keatts landed Mo Diarra and Mike O’Connell in last year’s transfer portal, NC State fans were happy to have a little more depth, but that’s about where it ends.

Diarra was initially a JUCO player whose first year at Missouri was nothing to write home about. In fact, the 6’10 Diarra was used as a backup, back to the basket big man, on a pretty good Mizzou team. He finished averaging 11 minutes per game, 3 points and 3 rebounds for the Tigers. There was some who felt as if Diarra was misused and could show more promise if moved to a stretch 4 position.