Mohamed “Mo” Bamba, a name instantly recognizable even to casual sports fans thanks to the 2017 hit song by Sheck Wes, is more than just a catchy lyric. He is a professional basketball player with a unique skillset and a journey through the NBA marked by both promise and challenges. This article delves into Bamba’s career, exploring his background, his path to the league, his time with various teams, and what the future might hold for the towering center.
From Harlem Courts to NBA Draft Lottery
Born on May 12, 1998, in Harlem, New York, to parents who emigrated from the Ivory Coast, Mohamed Fakaba Bamba’s introduction to basketball came at the age of six. Inspired by the vibrant basketball culture of his hometown, he quickly developed a passion for the game. His towering height and developing skills soon made him a standout prospect.
Bamba honed his talent at Cardigan Mountain School in New Hampshire and later at the prestigious Westtown School in Pennsylvania, where he became a nationally recognized high school player. His exceptional wingspan, measured at a record-breaking 7 feet 10 inches at the 2018 NBA Combine, coupled with his developing shooting touch, made him a highly coveted recruit. He participated in the 2017 McDonald’s All-American Game and the Nike Hoop Summit, further solidifying his status as a top prospect in the 2017 class.
Choosing to play college basketball for the University of Texas, Bamba spent one season with the Longhorns (2017-2018). In 30 games, he averaged an impressive 12.9 points, 10.5 rebounds, and a nation-leading 3.7 blocks per game. His stellar freshman campaign earned him Big 12 All-Newcomer Team and All-Defensive Team honors, as well as a selection to the All-Big 12 Second Team. After just one year, Bamba declared for the 2018 NBA Draft.
NBA Career: A Journey Through Multiple Teams
Bamba’s potential and unique physical attributes led the Orlando Magic to select him with the sixth overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. Expectations were high for the young center, who was seen as a player with significant defensive upside and the potential to stretch the floor with his shooting.
Orlando Magic (2018-2023): Bamba spent his first four and a half seasons with the Orlando Magic. While he showed flashes of his potential, particularly as a shot-blocker and occasional three-point shooter, he struggled with consistency and finding a consistent role within the team. In his most productive season with the Magic (2021-2022), he started in 69 games, averaging 10.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks while shooting 38.1% from beyond the arc. However, injuries and changes in the team’s direction led to an inconsistent role.
Los Angeles Lakers (2023): In February 2023, Bamba was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. This move offered him a chance to play alongside stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, hoping to contribute to a playoff push. However, his time with the Lakers was brief, appearing in only nine regular-season games and a few playoff contests before being waived in June 2023.
Philadelphia 76ers (2023-2024): Seeking another opportunity, Bamba signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers in July 2023. Playing as a backup to MVP Joel Embiid, Bamba appeared in 57 games, providing rim protection and occasional scoring off the bench. While his minutes were limited, he showcased his ability to contribute when called upon.
Los Angeles Clippers (2024-2025): In the 2024 offseason, Bamba signed with the Los Angeles Clippers. The Clippers hoped his size and skillset would provide valuable depth to their frontcourt. He played 28 games for the Clippers, averaging 4.6 points and 4.3 rebounds, before being traded to the Utah Jazz in February 2025.
Utah Jazz (2025): Bamba’s tenure with the Utah Jazz was short-lived, as he was waived shortly after the trade.
New Orleans Pelicans (2025): In March 2025, Bamba signed a 10-day contract with the New Orleans Pelicans, providing them with frontcourt depth. After his initial contract expired, he signed a second 10-day contract and then a standard contract for the remainder of the season. However, his playing time was limited.
Birmingham Squadron (G League – 2025): In a somewhat unconventional move in February 2025, while a free agent after his release from the Jazz, Bamba briefly joined the Birmingham Squadron, the G League affiliate of the New Orleans Pelicans. This move allowed him to stay in game shape and potentially showcase his abilities for a return to the NBA, which ultimately materialized with his Pelicans signing.
Future Prospects and Potential
As of May 2025, Mo Bamba finds himself at a crucial juncture in his NBA career. After a somewhat nomadic journey through several teams, his recent stint with the New Orleans Pelicans provides another opportunity to showcase his value. His unique combination of size, shot-blocking ability, and potential as a floor-spacing big man remains intriguing to NBA teams.
However, consistency and finding a stable role will be key for Bamba moving forward. While he has demonstrated flashes of high-level play, he needs to prove he can be a reliable contributor on a consistent basis. His health will also be a significant factor, as he has dealt with injuries throughout his career.
If Bamba can stay healthy, continue to develop his offensive game, and find a team where his skillset is a good fit, he still has the potential to be a valuable asset in the NBA. His shot-blocking and rebounding can be impactful, and if his three-point shooting becomes more consistent, it would significantly enhance his versatility.
Ultimately, Mo Bamba’s NBA journey is a testament to his talent and perseverance. While the viral song brought him early fame, his continued presence in the league is a result of his dedication to the game. As he navigates his career, he will aim to solidify his role and fulfill the potential that made him a lottery pick. The basketball world will be watching to see what the next chapter holds for the player behind the iconic anthem.
FAQs
Who is Mo Bamba?
Mo Bamba, whose full name is Mohamed Karlakwan Damala Bamba, is an American professional basketball player known for his height, wingspan, and shot-blocking ability. He was born in Harlem, New York, on May 12, 1998. Bamba played one year of college basketball at the University of Texas before declaring for the 2018 NBA Draft, where he was selected 6th overall by the Orlando Magic.
What makes Mo Bamba stand out as a player?
Bamba is known for his extraordinary wingspan of 7 feet 10 inches, one of the longest ever recorded at the NBA Draft Combine. This physical attribute makes him a formidable rim protector and rebounder. He also has the potential to stretch the floor with a developing three-point shot, making him a valuable modern big man.
What has been the trajectory of Bamba’s NBA career?
Mo Bamba began his NBA career with the Orlando Magic, where he initially played limited minutes behind established veterans. Over time, he improved his conditioning and earned more playing time, showing flashes of his potential as a defensive anchor. He later had brief stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers, continuing to contribute as a backup center and shot-blocker.
Has Bamba faced any challenges in his career?
Yes, Bamba’s early career was impacted by injuries and health concerns, including a significant stress fracture and contracting COVID-19, which affected his conditioning. These setbacks limited his playing time and development during his first few seasons. However, he has worked to overcome these obstacles and continues to refine his skills.
What is Mo Bamba’s background off the court?
Mo Bamba comes from a West African heritage, with both of his parents hailing from the Ivory Coast. He is known for his intelligence, having scored well on academic assessments and shown interest in business and technology. Off the court, he’s also involved in community work, especially focusing on youth programs and education in his hometown of Harlem.
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