The New York Knicks’ front office has show international inclinations in recent years, and the path runs straight through France.

After selecting Pacôme Dadiet with the 25th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the Knicks doubled down in 2025 by acquiring the rights to Mohamed Diawara, taken 51st overall by the Clippers. Add in the recent signing of Guerschon Yabusele (now captaining the French national team ahead of EuroBasket 2025) and a clear pattern emerges: New York is building a bona fide French connection. (R.I.P. Gene Hackman.)

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France is quickly becoming a global force in the basketball world. A record six French players were selected in the 2025 draft, including potential stars like Nolan Traore and Joan Beringer. But the Knicks aren’t just following a trend. Their scouting strategy seems to focus on versatile, athletic forwards with high ceilings and time to develop.

Dadiet, a lanky wing with two-way upside, embodies the Knicks’ draft-and-stash philosophy. Still developing overseas, he’s honing his shot-making and defensive versatility. Diawara, who has roots in Mali and played for Cholet Basket, brings toughness, switchability, and a growing perimeter game, which are all traits that align with a long-term vision.

Yabusele, meanwhile, proved his NBA worth last season with the Philadelphia 76ers. He appeared in 70 games (43 starts), averaging 11.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 50% from the field and 38% from three. He stepped in at both forward and backup center, stood out as a floor-spacer, and turned heads with a 28-point performance against Denver in January. Now a leader for Team France, Yabusele adds depth to the Knicks while symbolizing the success of the very system they’ve tapped into.

He also provides a blueprint for players like Dadiet and Diawara, modeling what it takes to transition from the French leagues to elite international play.

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Tapping into France’s rising basketball profile helps New York uncover under-the-radar talent while expanding its global reach. Players like Dadiet and Diawara could be the foundation of an international development pipeline that offers long-term flexibility and potential rotation value.

With EuroBasket 2025 on the horizon, we’ll certainly be keeping a keen eye on Yabu and Team France.

Go Knicks.