James Nnaji Returns to College Basketball: A Look at His Next Steps with Baylor
In a remarkable twist to his basketball journey, James Nnaji, a 2023 NBA Draft pick, has announced his enrollment at Baylor University and gained immediate eligibility to play for the Bears this season. This decision marks a unique path for a draft player, as he never signed an NBA contract, allowing him the opportunity to return to college.
Nnaji’s NBA Journey
- Draft Status: Nnaji, a 21-year-old Nigerian big man, was selected 31st overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2023 NBA Draft.
- Career Path: Instead of joining the NBA, he opted to continue playing overseas, primarily with FC Barcelona, and later split his last season between Spain and Turkey.
- Trade Details: After his international stint, his draft rights were traded to the New York Knicks as part of a three-team deal that brought superstar Karl-Anthony Towns to New York before the 2024-25 season.
Recent Performance
In the previous season, Nnaji participated in 22 games between Bàsquet Girona and Yukatel Merkezefendi, averaging:
- 6.1 points
- 4.1 rebounds
- 1 block
- 16 minutes of play per game
These numbers reflect his potential as a significant player on the court, paving the way for his return to Baylor.
Summer League and Future Prospects
This past summer, Nnaji showcased his skills in the Knicks’ summer league squad, where he averaged:
- 3.2 points
- 3.6 rebounds
Although his performance was promising, he was not signed by the Knicks, making his return to NCAA basketball a strategic move. His agent, Gerard Raventos, expressed optimism about Nnaji’s future, emphasizing that his performance during the summer league would influence his next steps:
“Hopefully after [the summer league], we can reach an agreement. It’s 50/50, it depends how he does. He’s coming in great shape.”
Exciting Opportunities at Baylor
With his enrollment at Baylor, Nnaji is set to join the 9-2 Baylor Bears, competing in the Big 12 Conference. Fans can look forward to his debut in the college basketball scene, starting with the Big 12 opener on January 3 against TCU.
His return to college basketball offers numerous advantages, including:
- Development: Competing at a high level in the NCAA will allow Nnaji to refine his skills.
- Exposure: This opportunity will showcase his talent to NBA scouts, potentially setting up another run at the league after his college season.
Conclusion
James Nnaji’s enrollment at Baylor is a compelling chapter in his basketball journey, blending international experience with collegiate ambition. As he steps back onto the court, the basketball community eagerly awaits to see how his journey unfolds in the coming months.
For more insights on basketball careers and player developments, check out ESPN and NBA.com.
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