April 20, 2009
TIMEOUT WITH Archive
Mamadou Diene
Men's Basketball
Senior
What has been the biggest adjustment since coming to America?
"When I first got here I had trouble with the English language, I was able to speak it but I wasn't used to talking to so many people at one time. So that was proved to be a challenge for me."
You are often referred to as the "Mayor", how did that nickname come about?
"Coach Drew gave me that name during my freshman year because I'm popular here and almost everyone knows me. "
What are your plans now that basketball season is over?
"I still don't know, professional basketball is an option but if not that I plan to go to grad school to get my masters. "
What is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome and how has it impacted your life?
"Both my parents passed away when I was young and it was really tough for me. They both had a big impact on my life; they raised me the right way and they were there for me. My education was very important to them and I decided to get a college degree to honor their memory. "
What do you miss most about Senegal?
"I miss my family, my friends, the food and the lifestyle. "
How has the Waco community affected your experience here at Baylor?
"Waco is a great city with great people. That's one of the reasons I was able to adjust so quickly here. Although I'm far away from my family, the Waco community and Baylor students make me feel home. I'm very thankful for that. "
