Biography of Ismaël Bako
Born on 10 October 1995, the Belgian took his first steps in the professional world at home in Leuven. He quickly gained the trust of the club, which opened the doors to the first division for him before he had even turned 18. At the same time, averaging 2.7 blocks per game in the Adidas Next Generation tournaments certainly helped. For three seasons, Ismaël Bako moved back and forth between the first team and the youth team. But at the age of 20, the centre exploded onto the scene, finishing in the top five during his last campaign.
After playing in three Euro Espoirs tournaments, Ismaël Bako is already considered one of the biggest prospects. And in the end, the Windrose Giants Antwerp hit the jackpot. His signing in the summer of 2017 immediately propelled the centre into a whole new sphere. The EuroCup and then the Basketball Champions League in 2019 were on the horizon. Once again, our new recruit stood out and finished with a bronze medal around his neck in the competition’s top five.
But it was at ASVEL that French basketball fans first heard about the Bako phenomenon, notably with a Cup-Championship double in the Rhône region. This adventure set the tone for a professional career that was about to take off. Manresa, Virtus Bologna, Kazan: in each of these clubs, the slender Belgian player distinguished himself in the most impressive way.
He is now with Paris Basketball, with clear ambitions after a somewhat disappointing Euro 2025 for Belgium.
What role will Ismaël Bako play for Paris Basketball in the 2025-2026 season
Yes, Ismaël Bako is ‘only 29 years old’. But don’t be fooled by his age. Behind this centre lies a wealth of experience, capable of leading an ambitious team in international competition. Moreover, when all eyes are on him, he does not shy away.
On the court, his physique and his reading of the game allow him to contribute around ten points per game. Whether in defence or attack, the paint is his home turf.
Player’s style of play in 3 words
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