Malik Dia will run it back at Ole Miss for one more season.
The 6-foot-9 center announced on Sunday that this past season, which was highlighted by the Rebels’ second-ever appearance in the Sweet 16, would not be his last under Chris Beard’s guidance. Dia, who will be entering his senior year, transferred to Ole Miss from Belmont after having spent his freshman year at Vanderbilt.
During his debut campaign as a Rebel, Dia averaged 10.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, and nearly one block per game while starting in all 36 matchups. Though he had multiple big moments in his junior year, the red and blue’s big man had his most prolific outing in a 74-64 win at then-No. 4 Alabama. In that contest, Dia had a stellar 23 points and 19 boards. He also played an integral role in the Rebels making a postseason run, which tied for the best finish in program history.
Now, following reports that his head coach did not take Texas A&M up on a reportedly lucrative offer, Dia is poised not only to help lead Ole Miss back to the NCAA Tournament, but land the team in the national title contest. Though those ambitions may appear lofty, as the Rebels have never come close to sniffing that level of success in basketball, Dia has bought into Beard’s message that big things can be accomplished at Ole Miss.
“After an incredible run to the Sweet 16 this past season, I’ve taken time to reflect on my journey, my growth, and my future. With that in mind, I’m excited to announce that I will be returning to Ole Miss for another year under Coach Beard to run it back with my brothers,” Dia wrote.
“We have unfinished business. 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. For my development — both as a player and as a leader — coming back for another season is the best decision. I’m locked in, ready to put in the work, and can’t wait to get back on the court at the Pavilion. Let’s make history. Hotty Toddy!”
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Dia’s announcement wasn’t the only development for Beard’s frontcourt ahead of his third campaign with the Rebels. On Sunday, LSU forward Corey Chest announced his commitment to Ole Miss. Chest, a promising 6-foot-8 freshman, logged 6.1 points and 6.7 rebounds per game this past season.
NEWS: LSU transfer forward Corey Chest has committed to Ole Miss, he told @On3sports.
The 6-8 freshman known for being a glass cleaner, grabbed 12 rebounds against Ole Miss earlier this season and had 18 boards on Alabama. https://t.co/UwyWvMlFpH pic.twitter.com/FnCPsKKzde
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) April 6, 2025
As the current transfer portal cycle continues, Ole Miss is slated to add plenty of new faces to its roster. Beard and his staff are currently in the process of reloading after losing a litany of seniors, including Sean Pedulla, Jaemyn Brakefield, Matthew Murrell, Jaylen Murray, and Dre Davis, who do not have any collegiate eligibility left.
