Meet Aly 🇲🇱

CPSAF Scholar-Athlete: U.S. Arrival at Age 17

Introducing Aly, a 17-year-old basketball talent emerging from Bamako, the vibrant heart of the Republic of Mali in West Africa. As the bustling capital and Mali's largest city, Bamako thrives along the banks of the Niger River, standing as a lively cultural and economic hub with a population of over 4.2 million as of 2022.

Aly's family life reflects the traditional Malian culture of polygamy, growing up among five siblings, shared between two mothers and a father. This familial structure is a testament to Bamako's acceptance of polygamous marriages, a practice that profoundly influences the social fabric of Mali, where polygamy is among the highest globally.

Among Aly's culinary favorites is Mafé, a beloved West African dish featuring a rich peanut sauce served over rice—a hearty, flavorful meal that epitomizes the region's culinary traditions. Alongside his love for Mafé, Aly also enjoys the Italian classic, lasagna, showcasing his diverse palate.

With aspirations to join the ranks of top-tier basketball programs, Aly sets his sights on Brigham Young University, the University of Utah, or the University of Arizona. In Aly's academic world, math and history stand out as his favorite classes, showcasing his appreciation for numbers and the stories of the past. His journey from the streets of Bamako to the courts of American universities is not just a pursuit of athletic excellence but a bridge between diverse cultures and shared dreams.