Josh Okogie is a Nigerian-American professional basketball player known for his defensive prowess and energy on the court.
Born on September 1, 1998, in Lagos, Nigeria, he moved to the United States at a young age and was raised in Snellville, Georgia.
He is the fourth of five children, with siblings Evaristus, Nathaniel, Rachael, and Emmanuel. His parents, Pius and Anthonia Okogie, moved the family to America via the green card lottery, building a new life that supported Josh’s athletic ambitions.
His upbringing in a multicultural environment helped shape both his identity and work ethic. Today, Okogie proudly represents Nigeria on the international stage, further deepening his global appeal.
College Career at Georgia Tech
Before entering the NBA, Josh Okogie played college basketball at Georgia Tech, where he immediately made a name for himself as one of the Atlantic Coast Conference’s top young talents.
In two seasons with the Yellow Jackets, he averaged 16.9 points per game, combining elite athleticism with a strong defensive mindset. His standout performances earned him a spot on the ACC All-Freshman Team and Third-Team All-ACC, solidifying his status as an NBA-caliber player.
NBA Draft and Early Career with the Timberwolves
Okogie declared for the 2018 NBA Draft and was selected 20th overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves. From the outset, he showcased the high-energy, defense-first playing style that has become his trademark.
In Minnesota, he earned a reputation as a lockdown perimeter defender, frequently guarding the opposing team’s top scorers. His hustle, intensity, and athleticism made him a valuable asset on a young, rebuilding Timberwolves squad.
Growth and Development with the Phoenix Suns
In 2022, Josh Okogie signed with the Phoenix Suns, a move that marked a turning point in his offensive development. While continuing to be a defensive cornerstone, Okogie worked tirelessly to improve his outside shooting.
During the 2023–24 season, he shot a career-high 38.1% from three-point range, significantly boosting his value as a two-way player. His role as a 3-and-D wing became increasingly prominent, and he provided crucial depth for the Suns during multiple playoff runs.
Current Role with the Charlotte Hornets
As of the 2024–25 NBA season, Josh Okogie plays for the Charlotte Hornets, following a midseason trade. With Charlotte, Okogie has taken on an expanded role, averaging 7.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and over 1 steal per game.
His field goal percentage sits at 44.3%, while his three-point accuracy remains solid at 34.8%. In a young Hornets roster, Okogie brings veteran experience, elite perimeter defense, and leadership, making him an integral part of the team’s development.
Strengths: Elite Defense and Evolving Offense
Josh Okogie’s biggest asset is his elite defensive ability. Standing 6-foot-4 with a nearly 7-foot wingspan, he is capable of guarding multiple positions.
His relentless energy on defense results in steals, deflections, and forced turnovers that often shift momentum in close games. Offensively, Okogie has grown into a reliable shooter and slasher. His ability to space the floor with consistent three-point shooting makes him a versatile option in any rotation.
Off the Court: Cultural Pride and Community Impact
Outside of basketball, he has a musical side—his upbringing included playing instruments like the piano, violin, and tuba—and he enjoys outdoor activities with friends.
Okogie is also known for his cultural pride and commitment to community development. He has represented Nigeria in international basketball competitions and actively supports youth basketball initiatives in Africa and the United States.
