Six Nigerian heritage players selected in NBA draft
Nigeria's presence in global basketball was highlighted as six players of Nigerian descent were chosen in the 2026 NBA Draft. The selected players are Ebuka Okorie, Zuby Ejiofor, Otega Oweh, Felix Okpara, Tobi Lawal, and Ugonna Onyenso. These athletes were picked by different NBA teams, with some expected to move through draft-night trades. Their selections underscore the growing impact of Nigerian talent in the league.
Match highlights
- Ebuka Okorie was picked 17th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder but is expected to join the Detroit Pistons after a trade.
- Zuby Ejiofor was selected 23rd overall by the Atlanta Hawks following a strong collegiate career at St. John’s University.
- Otega Oweh was chosen 41st overall by the Miami Heat, with his rights likely heading to the Oklahoma City Thunder; he averaged 18.6 points and 1.8 steals in his final college season.
- Felix Okpara (Orlando Magic, 46th overall), Tobi Lawal (Dallas Mavericks, 48th overall), and Ugonna Onyenso (Houston Rockets, 53rd overall) rounded out the Nigerian contingent.
- Ugonna Onyenso became the youngest player to represent Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team at age 17 and is a graduate of NBA Academy Africa.
