Prospect Spotlight: Daouda Dembele (2021)
Compared to most, Daouda Dembele got a late introduction to the game of basketball. The broad-shouldered 6-foot-6, 205-pound forward, who turned 16 in January, recalled playing for the first time in in 7th grade. Dembele made the 8th grade middle school basketball team then played JV during his freshman year at Springbrook before getting moved up to varsity during his sophomore year.
Despite his raw offensive skills, Dembele is an immediate standout as a result of his terrific work ethic along with his ability to rebound and defend multiple positions at a high level.
“I can rebound, I can defend, I can knock down that baby jumper, and I can get to the rim and finish at the rim,” Dembele said of his overall game. “Right now, I’m working on my ball handling so I can get my own shot and create offense. Getting a three point shot to be honest.”
One current NBA player that Dembele enjoys watching is Blake Griffin. He admires Griffin’s athleticism as well as his ability to handle the ball, finish around the rim, and makes guys around him better.
Dembele currently has a 3.7 GPA, which means he’s in good position to achieve his goal.
“Right now, my goal is to play college basketball.”
Daouda Dembele is currently ranked by Prep Hoops as a top-50 prospect. To view the full ranking of Maryland and DC’s 2021 class, click here.