Commodores land second Monday commit in BJ Diakite
Just minutes after Vanderbilt received their first 2022 commitment in Langston Patterson, the Commodores landed their second as Pinson Valley (Ala.) linebacker BJ Diakite announced his verbal pledge via Twitter.
He describes the moment he knew Vanderbilt was the right fit for him.
"I had went up there to Nashville (earlier in March) and saw the campus and touring everything," Diakite explained. "The campus was beautiful and I was like 'yeah, I would like it here.' I talked to my parents too and they loved the coaches and I do too and my connections got stronger and stronger with them everyday."
That visit was followed by a call to Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea to give him the news, who he's established a great rapport with throughout the recruiting process.
"I called Coach Lea and told him," Diakite said of his commitment. "He was all smiles and very excited."
"He's a really cool and calm guy and when he talks to you, you know he means what he says. When we first talked, he talked with me and my parents and we got off the phone I was like 'yeah, they like him.'"
Vanderbilt was the first power five offer for the 6-foot-4, 210-pound prospect back on February 16th.
Diakite starred on both sides of the ball helping lead Pinson Valley to a 6A state championship. The Commodores like his versatility and see him playing defensive end, outside linebacker, or wide receiver.
"They say that I'm long and lengthy," Diakite said. "They also like that I am versatile because I play receiver too and tight end. They said I would be playing the star position and that I'd be rushing some, covering some in the flats."
"I'm very long, so I feel like that's a big advantage that I have. I'm quick off the edge."
Assistants Norval McKenzie and John Egorugwu played big roles in Diakite's recruiting process. He noted his excitement with the Commodores offer back in February.
“Coach McKenzie and Coach Egorugwu offered me," Diakite said. "It is exciting. I’m very happy. I cannot stop smiling. It’s a blessing and a dream come true.”
“It’s a very smart academic school. I will be getting a good education. It’s more than just football, they care about their players and treat them like family.”
Diakite will look to continue the legacy of another Pinson Valley product that starred at Vanderbilt in Zach Cunningham, someone he looks up to.
“(Zach Cunningham) is not afraid to fail. He’s persistent and never gives up. I love his work ethic. A lot of people say I remind them of him,” said Diakite.
“I look up to him. He’s a very good player and hopefully I can build a legacy like he did.”
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