The Ole Miss Rebels just landed a major international commitment. Ilias Kamardine, a 21-year-old French combo guard and former FIBA U20 Eurobasket MVP, officially committed to Ole Miss on April 29, per ESPN. The 6-foot-4, 180-pound guard has been making waves overseas and is now set to bring his high-level experience to Chris Beard’s surging program.
French Guard Ilias Kamardine Brings International Pedigree to Chris Beard’s Rising Rebels
Kamardine plays professionally for JDA Dijon Basket in LNB Pro A, the top-tier basketball league in France. The league is known for producing elite talent, including NBA No. 1 overall pick Victor Wembanyama, and Kamardine has proven he belongs among the best. In 46 games with Dijon, he averaged 7.3 points and 2.3 rebounds, while also gaining EuroCup experience, posting 8.0 points, 2.4 assists, 2.4 rebounds, and a steal per game.
NEWS: French guard Ilias Kamardine has committed to Ole Miss, a source told ESPN.
The 6’5 versatile combo plays for Dijon in Pro A. Former MVP and tournament champion at the FIBA U20 Eurobasket, turns 22 in October.
Major backcourt addition for Chris Beard in the SEC. pic.twitter.com/miunS01pNc
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 29, 2025
Kamardine’s shooting percentages demonstrate his growing efficiency and offensive promise. During EuroCup competition, he shot 43.4% from the field, 39% from three, and 79% from the free-throw line, a strong indicator of his ability to stretch the floor and contribute across multiple backcourt roles.
Before rising to Pro A, Kamardine played for Vichy-Clermont in France’s second-tier LNB Pro B, where he developed as a distributor. He averaged 3.0 assists per game alongside 2.4 points and 2.9 rebounds. His steady improvement and ability to adapt to higher levels of competition have caught the attention of scouts and coaches across the Atlantic.
Kamardine’s accolades at the FIBA U20 Eurobasket, where he earned MVP honors and led France to a tournament championship, further validate his elite potential. Known for his basketball IQ, court vision, and two-way versatility, the 6-foot-5 guard (with recent reports upgrading his height) will bring international flair and maturity to the SEC.
Kamardine’s commitment comes at a time of renewed excitement in Oxford. It is his second season, and head coach Chris Beard led the Rebels to 24 wins and a Sweet 16 appearance, signaling a rapid turnaround and making Ole Miss a desirable destination for top-tier talent, including international prospects like Kamardine.
Adding Kamardine to the backcourt rotation gives Beard another dynamic guard capable of playing on or off the ball. His pro experience in Europe’s top league offers a rare maturity that could immediately translate to high-level play in the SEC.
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As Ole Miss eyes another deep NCAA Tournament run in 2026, adding Ilias Kamardine could be a game-changer. His blend of international experience, shooting efficiency, and championship pedigree gives the Rebels a unique asset in the backcourt. For fans in Oxford, the message is clear: Chris Beard is building something special, and the world is watching.
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