AFCON 2025
Nigeria’s influence in the NBA has never been stronger. With a rich history of producing elite basketball talent, the country continues to shape the league through a new generation of stars.
From MVP winners to rising role players, these athletes bring a mix of athleticism, skill, and resilience, embodying the Nigerian spirit on basketball’s biggest stage.
Whether they were born in Nigeria or have strong ancestral ties, these ten players are leaving a lasting mark on the NBA while also inspiring the next wave of African basketball talent.
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
Born to Nigerian parents in Greece, Giannis has become one of the NBA’s most dominant players.
His unique blend of size, athleticism, and skill has earned him multiple MVP awards and an NBA championship. Giannis continues to be a cornerstone for the Milwaukee Bucks, leading them in scoring, rebounds, and assists.
2. Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat)
Edrice “Bam” Adebayo, with Nigerian heritage through his father, has established himself as a premier center in the NBA.
Known for his defensive prowess and playmaking abilities, Bam was instrumental in the Miami Heat’s deep playoff runs in recent years. His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions and contribute significantly on offense.
3. OG Anunoby (New York Knicks)
Born in London to Nigerian parents, OG Anunoby has developed into one of the league’s top two-way players.
His defensive versatility and improved offensive game have made him a key player for the teams he has appeared for.
He was traded from the Toronto Raptors to New York Knicks in 2023 alongside fellow Nigerian, Precious Achiuwa.
Anunoby’s ability to guard the opposing team’s best player while contributing offensively has been crucial for the Knicks.
4. Precious Achiuwa (New York Knicks)
Hailing from Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Precious Achiuwa has shown promise as a dynamic forward.
After being drafted by the Miami Heat, he was traded to the Toronto Raptors, where his energy and athleticism have been valuable assets off the bench.
On December 30, 2023, Achiuwa was traded alongside OG Anunoby and Malachi Flynn to the New York Knicks in exchange for RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and a second-round draft pick.
5. Josh Okogie (Charlotte Hornets)
Born to Nigerian parents in Lagos, Josh Okogie has built a reputation as a tenacious defender and has played for Minnesota Timberwolves and Phoenix Suns.
On 15 January 2025, Okogie and three future second-round picks were traded to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Nick Richards and one future second-round draft pick.
6. Charles Bassey (San Antonio Spurs)
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Charles Bassey has emerged as a promising center for the San Antonio Spurs. After moving to the United States at age 14, Bassey played college basketball at Western Kentucky University, where he earned accolades such as Conference USA Player of the Year in 2021.
Drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft, Bassey later signed with the Spurs, where he has been developing his skills as a versatile big man.
7. Tosan Evbuomwan (Brooklyn Nets)
Tosan Evbuomwan’s journey from Newcastle upon Tyne, England, to the NBA is remarkable. With Nigerian heritage, Evbuomwan discovered basketball at 14 and progressed through UK ranks, eventually catching Princeton’s attention.
After going undrafted, he impressed in the G League and secured a two-way contract with the Brooklyn Nets. His adaptability and maturity have earned him praise, and he has contributed significantly to the team.
9. Adem Bona (Philadelphia 76ers)
Adem Bona, born Ikechukwu Stanley Okoro in Lagos, Nigeria, is a Nigerian-Turkish professional basketball player for the Philadelphia 76ers.
After a standout college career at UCLA, where he earned accolades such as Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year, Bona was selected by the 76ers in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft.
He made his NBA debut on October 23, 2024, and has shown promise as a defensive presence and rebounder.
10. Gabe Vincent (Los Angeles Lakers)
Gabriel Nnamdi Vincent, of Nigerian descent, has been a crucial contributor to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Known for his sharpshooting and defensive tenacity, Vincent played a significant role in the Miami Heat’s Finals run in 2023 before signing with the Lakers.
His ability to stretch the floor and guard multiple positions makes him a valuable asset in the Lakers’ rotation.
