Ousmane Dieng Shooting Freely in the G League

Oklahoma City's young wing is getting valuable experience with the team's G League affiliate.

Ousmane Dieng likely won't be in the G League for long. He was one of the first players off the bench for the Thunder over the first few weeks of the season. Late last week, though, Oklahoma City assigned him to the Blue and he has suited up during the last two games. The results are a mixed bag, but the experience is invaluable.

On Monday, Dieng racked up 33 minutes and poured in 17 points, 12 rebounds, two assists and two steals. He shot 7-of-16 from the floor and 1-of-7 from 3-point range. On Wednesday, Oklahoma City won in dramatic fashion as Dieng added 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists on 6-of-17 shooting and 4-of-9 from downtown.

The numbers don't quite pop off the screen, and the percentages certainly don't but the volume is certainly encouraging. Dieng is never going to take 16 shots in a game with the Thunder, and he was able to do it twice with the Blue this week. His confidence and shot creation will only improve during time spent in the G League.

In addition to averaging 17.5 points across two games, Dieng's rebounding prowess is a positive sign. It's no secret that Oklahoma City has struggled to rebound and stick with bigger teams on the glass, and Dieng could be a big part of the team's improvement in that department down the road. 

Averaging 9.5 rebounds in two games is a strong start for the second-year wing, and his 12-rebound performance is certainly impressive. At 6-foot-10, Dieng's physicality could come in handy if he figures out how to use his height to his advantage.

Learning from Kenrich Williams could be key for Dieng when he's called back up to the Thunder. If Williams can help change Dieng's mindset and demonstrate hustle and toughness, the team will benefit.

Until then, though, any reps in the G League will help his overall game improve. The Thunder's rotation is the strongest it has been all season, and adding an improved Dieng later down the road could be special.

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