Player Spotlight: Arafan Diane – Dominant Size with Skill to Match
08/17/2025

Standing at 7-foot-1 with a 7-foot-4 wingspan and nearly 300 pounds, Arafan Diane is arguably the most physically dominant big man in the national class. With a broad frame and tree-trunk legs, he is nearly impossible to move off the block and presents a constant mismatch for opposing defenders.
On offense, Diane’s power game stands out. He finishes with force at the rim (80% FG in close), but he’s not just a dunker. He has natural touch and shooting potential, evidenced by a 5-for-9 performance from three in 3SSB play and a 71% free-throw mark. His high, unblockable release adds another wrinkle to his developing offensive arsenal. He’s also a reliable screen setter and pick-and-roll partner, making life easier for his guards.
Diane impacts the glass in a big way, averaging 10.8 rebounds per game with the length and strength to control his area. His upside as a rebounder is even higher, as he has shown flashes of elevating to snatch boards above traffic.
Defensively, he’s a clear deterrent in the paint. While not yet an elite rim protector (1.1 blocks per game), his sheer presence forces opponents to think twice when attacking. He’s currently best suited for drop-coverage in ball-screen defense.
The key to Diane’s long-term ceiling is conditioning. He made important strides heading into the grassroots season, which helped fuel his national rise, but continuing to balance size and mobility will be vital to maximizing his impact.
With his combination of size, strength, touch, and upside, Arafan Diane is a prospect to watch closely.
📍 Stay tuned to Elite Hoops Spotlight for more scouting reports and player breakdowns.