Age: 21
Role: A 7-foot-6 sophomore center on the UC Irvine men’s basketball team.
Bio: Ndiaye came to the United States from Senegal as a teen. During his first year in high school, he was diagnosed with a tumor on his pituitary gland, which had caused his excessive growth. The treatment for his tumor was paid for by several charitable donations. He is the tallest player in NCAA Division I basketball and has an 8-1 wingspan.
Why he’s an influencer: In 2014, he was featured in a video that urged President Barack Obama to deliver the commencement address at UCI. In June, Obama did just that. Ndiaye also works regularly in the community and was a Courage Honoree at this year’s Miracle for Kids gala. He’s a 2015 nominee for the National Association of Basketball Coaches Good Works Team.
Biggest challenge: Fitting into airline seats.
Work philosophy: “I practice hard whether it is my first practice, my second practice or last practice.”
Thoughts on leadership: “I can handle it.”
Inspiration: Ndiaye draws daily inspiration from his teammates and his coach, Russ Turner. “He pushes me all the time to be better.”
Can’t do without: Support from his family.
What’s next: Ndiaye wants to take UC Irvine to the NCAA Tournament. After that, he’d like to play in the NBA.
More sports influencers: Glenn Baldwin, Stanley Johnson, Dennis Kuhl, Kaleena Mosqueda-Lewis, Ryan Getzlaff, Art Sherman, Kobe Bryant, Teemu Selanne, Kyla Ross, Mike Trout, April Ross
View the full list: 100 people who influenced Orange County in 2014
