Monza is betting big on former Olimpia and Barcelona player Omar Dieng: “Let’s win this together”

Pallacanestro Monza has decided to place a strong bet on Omar Dieng, a player who brings to the red-and-white team a wealth of experience gained throughout Italy and beyond. A regular on the national youth teams, Dieng came up through the Milan youth system before spending the 2016–2017 season in Barcelona. His return to Italy took him to Verona for the 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 seasons, then to Bergamo in 2019–2020, and to San Giorgio the following season.

In 2021–2022, he moved to the ambitious Rieti team coached by Finelli, while the following season began in Trapani and continued in San Vendemiano. In 2023–2024, he played for Castello Bologna, before stints in Matelica in 2024–2025 and Termoli last season. Now, at 26, Dieng has chosen Pallacanestro Monza and will be one of the most experienced and talented players in the new project. Sportal.it interviewed him exclusively.

What convinced you to join the Pallacanestro Monza project, considering that you’re coming from higher divisions?

“Right from the start, I was impressed by the organization and professionalism of this club. From experience, I can say that finding certain qualities like these is by no means a given. I’ve played for many teams in Italy, and you don’t always come across people and an organization of this caliber. It was definitely one of the aspects that convinced me the most.”

You’re one of the players expected to be a leader on this team. Do you feel ready to take on more responsibility, especially toward your younger teammates?

“Yes, definitely. It’s an area where I still need to mature, because after all, I’m 26, not 35. It’s something I need to develop further, but I believe that with time I’ll be able to do so and take on more and more responsibility.”

How important was the training you received at a club like Milan to your development?

“Extremely important. Growing up in such a prestigious environment gave me a lot and played a significant role in my development.”

What do you think you can pass on to the younger players, especially in terms of work ethic and daily attitude?

“I try to bring my best every day and always give my all, while also trying to be a role model for the younger players. At the same time, though, I’m not a complete player yet, and I still have a lot to learn. They can help me, too. It has to be a mutual exchange, because in the end, we all win together.”