SEATTLE – Seattle University men's basketball has announced the addition of 6-10 center Ladji Coulibaly to the Redhawks' roster for the 2026-27 season.
"Ladji brings size, athleticism and a wealth of experience to our frontcourt,” said head coach Chris Victor. “He has developed in some outstanding basketball environments, from the NBA Global Academy and Centre of Excellence to BAXI Manresa, junior college and international competition with Mali. That experience, along with his ability to rebound, finish around the basket and impact the game defensively, will be a great addition to our program.”
Coulibaly, who hails from Kati, Mali, joins the Redhawks after a standout freshman season at New Mexico Junior College. He appeared in 34 games, averaging 7.9 points and 7.1 rebounds per game while shooting 56.5 percent from the field. Coulibaly helped lead the Thunderbirds to a 27-7 record in 2025-26, marking the program’s most wins in a season since 2014. New Mexico JC advanced to the Round of 16 at the NJCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship.
Prior to his time at New Mexico JC, Coulibaly was with the NBA Global Academy and Centre of Excellence in Canberra, Australia. He was also a member of the BAXI Manresa club in Spain’s ACB League.
Coulibaly also brings extensive international experience to Seattle U. He has represented Mali at multiple FIBA youth world and continental competitions, including the 2021 FIBA U16 African Championship, the 2022 FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup and the 2025 FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup.
At the 2021 FIBA U16 African Championship, Coulibaly helped Mali finish as the tournament runner-up.
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