Alpha Diallo Joins Denver Nuggets, Leaving EuroLeague for NBA Dream

Alpha Diallo, the EuroLeague Defensive Player of the Year, is set to join the NBA's Denver Nuggets for the upcoming season. Although he had initially agreed to a contract with a Dubai team, Diallo exercised an NBA exit clause valid until July 15, allowing him to pursue his first NBA contract. The deal with Denver is for one year worth $1.4 million gross, significantly less than the over two million euros net he was expected to earn in Dubai.

Diallo's transfer involves financial compensation between clubs: Dubai had already paid Monaco $750,000 for Diallo, and will now receive $1 million due to his NBA departure. Born in New York City but undrafted in the 2020 NBA Draft, Diallo began his professional career in Europe, spending one season with Lavrio in Greece before five successful years with Monaco. During his time there, he contributed to three French championships and a EuroLeague final appearance in the 2024/25 season.

Known for his toughness and defensive prowess, Diallo led the EuroLeague last season with 1.4 steals per game, alongside averages of 11.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists. His move to the NBA fulfills a long-held ambition to compete in the world's top basketball league, despite the financial sacrifice involved.