Why Ole Miss basketball forward Malik Dia said he is returning to Rebels next season
OXFORD — Malik Dia says Ole Miss basketball coach Chris Beard changed his life. Now they are teaming up for another season.
Dia, who was a key part of the Rebels' run to the Sweet 16, announced Sunday night that he will return for his senior season.
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"We have unfinished business," he said in a social media statement. "This team, this program and Rebel Nation deserve a shot at a national championship, and I believe we have what it takes to make that dream a reality."
Dia, a 6-foot-9 forward, led the team in rebounding (5.7 per game) in 2024-25. Retaining him is a big win for Ole Miss: Of its six players who averaged at least 10 points per game, Dia is the one with eligibility.
The Rebels are bringing in LSU forward transfer Corey Chest, who should help Dia in rebounding next season.
More: How Ole Miss basketball coach Chris Beard has changed Malik Dia's life
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Sam Hutchens covers Ole Miss for the Clarion Ledger. Email him at Shutchens@gannett.com or reach him on X at @Sam_Hutchens_
This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Ole Miss basketball forward Malik Dia announces return
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