All eyes are set on the high-profile prospect, Victor Wembenyama, to lead France’s next generation, and rightly so. But there’s another tower in the French capital that’s garnering attention, in 6-foot-11 center Ismael Kamagate.
On the books of Paris Basketball, the 20-year-old featured in 40 contests (28 starts) in the LNB Pro B through 2020-21. Posting averages of 9.4 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks, on an impressive 70.4% shooting from the field.
On January 30, 2021, Kamagate scored a career-high 23 points in a road win over Evreux. Alongside 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 block. Through the contest, he shot 8-9 and had a career-high efficiency rating of 32.
Kamagate’s first love was soccer, up until the age of 13. Before embarking on a journey through Paris’ youth basketball system. He was a fast learner and was developing at a remarkable rate. For the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons, he continued his rise with Orleans Loiret Basket, where he featured for the U18 and 2nd teams.
It was with Orleans that his talent started being recognized, as a selection to represent France at the 2019 U18 European Championships in Greece came calling. An opportunity to join the newly-formed Paris Basketball, led by former Minnesota Timberwolves General Manager David Kahn, then presented itself.
Through the 2019-20 season, the youngster recieved his first taste of professional action. Showing out in 21 LNB Pro B contests, on averages of 6 points and 3.6 rebounds. But his development continued further in France’s third tier, on assignment with Central Federal de Basketball.
CFBB are a team filled with players from the prestigious INSEP academy. Who have been credited with the development of Tony Parker, Boris Diaw, and Clint Capela, plus many more. In 11 games with the side, Kamagate averaged 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 block. Which led to a full ride in France’s second tier this past season (2020-21).
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The Parisian prospect is extremely athletic, with an 8-foot+ standing reach and 7-foot+ wingspan. His length makes him a versatile option on both ends of the floor, whether it’s finishing at the rim strong, grabbing rebounds, or protecting the paint. Furthermore, his athleticism allows him to run the floor well.
In time, Kamagate will build up more strength to allow him to compete at the next level. At the moment, he is still a very raw, wiry prospect. Shooting is another focus of his development over time. It has been suggested that an outside shot could feature eventually, but right now it’s practically non-existent.
Initial focus surrounds teammate Juhann Begarin on Paris Basketball, who looks set to make the leap to the NBA via the upcoming 2021 Draft. But it’s fair to say that Ismael Kamagate’s time will come. The 20-year-old has had a remarkable rise in the past few years, and his development will only continue at a rapid rate.
Being a mobile big man, capable of running the floor and protecting the paint, makes Kamagate an intriguing option at the NBA level. Along with his ability to be coachable and willingness to evolve his skill-set further.
Header Image Credit: LNB
Author: Matt Evans (@MattEvansCU)