N’Faly Dante is a Malian professional basketball player who currently plays as a center for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in the NBA G League, under a two-way contract with the Houston Rockets.

Personal Information:

  • Full Name: N’Faly Dante
  • Nationality: Malian
  • Date of Birth: October 19, 2001
  • Age: January 15, 2025
  • Birthplace: Bamako, Mali
  • Height: 6 feet 11 inches (211 cm)
  • Weight: 230 pounds (105 kg)
  • Wingspan: 7 feet 0 inches
  • Shoe Size: Size 18 (US)

Basketball Career:

  • Position: Center
  • Jersey Number: 3
  • High School: Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Aire, Kansas)
  • College: University of Oregon (2019–2024)
  • NBA Draft: Undrafted in 2024
  • Professional Teams:
    • Houston Rockets: Signed a two-way contract on July 9, 2024
    • Rio Grande Valley Vipers (NBA G League): 2024–present
  • Championship Rings: None to date

College Career:

Dante had a notable tenure at the University of Oregon, earning several accolades:

  • 2023–24 Season:
    • All-Pac-12 First Team: For the second consecutive season
    • Pac-12 Tournament Most Outstanding Player: Led the Ducks to the Pac-12 Tournament Championship
    • Averages: 17.0 points (69.5% FG), 9.2 rebounds, 1.7 steals, 1.9 blocks, and 1.6 assists per game
    • Highlights: Career-high 28 points and 20 rebounds in the NCAA Tournament against Creighton
  • 2022–23 Season:
    • All-Pac-12 First Team: Recognized for outstanding performance
    • Averages: Team highs in points (13.5), rebounds (8.2), blocks (1.4), and field goal percentage (64.2%)
    • Highlights: Nine double-doubles, including two 15-point, 15-rebound games

Throughout his college career, Dante demonstrated significant growth, particularly in scoring, rebounding, and defensive capabilities.

Professional Career:

After going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft, Dante signed a two-way contract with the Houston Rockets on July 9, 2024.

He has been playing for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, the Rockets’ NBA G League affiliate, where he continues to develop his skills.

Personal Life:

  • Children: None
  • Siblings: Information not publicly available

Dante’s journey from Bamako, Mali, to professional basketball in the United States is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. His experiences and growth are further highlighted in his personal letter published in The Players’ Tribune.