Knicks lose rising front office exec Makhtar Ndiaye to Mavericks

The Knicks are losing a key member of their front office.

Makhtar Ndiaye, the Knicks’ director of international and pro scouting, is departing after nine years with the organization to accept the same title in the Mavericks’ front office, he confirmed Monday on social media.

“Hey everyone, I just want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Knicks organization for the last nine years,” Ndiaye posted. “As I move forward, I’m proud to know that I contributed to the team being in a better place.”

Ndiaye, a Senegal native, appeared in four NBA games for the Vancouver Grizzlies in 1998-99 after going undrafted out of North Carolina.

After transferring from Michigan, the 6-9 power forward was a member of the Tar Heels’ Final Four squads in 1997 and 1998.

After playing mostly overseas during his professional career, Ndiaye was hired as a scout by the Knicks in 2015.

He ascended to his most-recent title in 2021.

“Good luck to the Knicks and their amazing fan base!” the 50-year-old Ndiaye wrote. “I’m excited about what lies ahead. Living in the Dallas area feels just right now that I’m a Maverick. It’s time for a new team, new goals, and new challenges! Let’s get to work.”