Nigerian Stars Shine in 2026 NBA Draft Selection

The Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) congratulated six players of Nigerian heritage selected in the 2026 NBA Draft held at Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York. NBBF President Ahmadu Musa Kida described this achievement as a historic milestone for Nigerian basketball, emphasizing the country's growing influence in the global game.

The players included Ebuka Okori from Stanford University, who was the highest pick at 17th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Zubi Ejiofor from St. John's University, selected 23rd overall by the Atlanta Hawks.

Other notable selections were Otega Oweh from the University of Kentucky (41st overall by the Miami Heat), Felix Okpara from the University of Tennessee (46th overall by the Orlando Magic), Tobi Lawal from Virginia Tech (48th overall by the Dallas Mavericks), and Ugonna Onyenso from the NBA Academy Africa (53rd overall by the Houston Rockets). The NBBF acknowledged the contributions of parents, coaches, and mentors in shaping these athletes' careers.