Six Nigerians earn picks at 2026 NBA Draft

Nigeria achieved its most significant representation in the NBA Draft in recent memory, with six players of Nigerian heritage selected in the 2026 edition held in Brooklyn, New York.

The first round saw Ebuka Okorie, a product of Stanford University, chosen 17th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder, with his rights later traded to the Detroit Pistons. Zuby Ejiofor from St. John's University followed at 23rd overall, selected by the Atlanta Hawks, capping a strong first-round showing for Nigerian talent.

In the second round, Felix Okpara, who played college basketball at the University of Tennessee, was picked 46th overall by the Orlando Magic. Okpara, known for his shot-blocking abilities, earned SEC All-Defensive Team honors and ranks second in program history for blocks per game. Otega Oweh, a guard from the University of Kentucky, was selected 41st overall by the Miami Heat, with his rights also heading to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Oweh led the Wildcats in scoring and steals during his senior season.

Further bolstering the Nigerian contingent, Tobi Lawal, a London-born forward of Nigerian descent who played at Virginia Tech, was taken 48th overall by the Dallas Mavericks. Ugonna Onyenso, born in Owerri and a product of NBA Academy Africa, rounded off the selections as the 53rd pick, chosen by the Houston Rockets. His rights are set to move through multiple teams in a planned trade.