Six Nigerians Selected in 2026 NBA Draft in Brooklyn

In the 2026 NBA Draft held at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, six players of Nigerian heritage were selected, showcasing the growing influence of Nigeria in global basketball. Felix Okpara and Ugonna Onyenso were highlighted as the second pair of Nigeria-born players to be drafted in the first round.

Ebuka Okori, a product of Stanford University, was selected 17th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder, with subsequent rights bound for the Detroit Pistons as part of a trade involving the Memphis Grizzlies. Zubi Ejiofor from St. John's University was chosen 23rd overall by the Atlanta Hawks.

In the second round, Okpara, representing the University of Tennessee, was picked 46th overall by the Orlando Magic, recognized for his defensive skills. Otega Oweh from the University of Kentucky was selected 41st overall by the Miami Heat.

Tobi Lawal, a London-born forward of Nigerian descent from Virginia Tech, was taken 48th overall by the Dallas Mavericks. Onyenso, a product of the NBA Academy Africa, rounded out the Nigerian contingent as the 53rd pick by the Houston Rockets.