The 2026 NBA draft has cemented its place in history, with six Nigerian-born players making their mark on the big stage.

Among the selected players were Ebuka Okorie, Zuby Ejiofor, Felix Okpara, Otega Oweh, Tobi Lawal, and Ugonna Onyenso, who will join the ranks of the top basketball talent globally.

Ebuka Okorie, the 17th overall pick, has already secured a seat in the Oklahoma City Thunder's lineup after being traded to the Detroit Pistons. His impressive skills were developed during his stint at Stanford University.

Zuby Ejiofor, who was picked 23rd overall, has been drafted by the Atlanta Hawks. He spent his collegiate years at St John's University.

Felix Okpara, the 46th overall pick, is set to join the Orlando Magic. The Imo-born player's basketball journey began at the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal and continued at the Connecticut—Putnam Science Academy.

Otega Oweh, selected 41st overall, will join the Miami Heat. Oweh was part of a planned trade and has been named to the All-SEC Second Team in both seasons at the University of Kentucky.

Tobi Lawal, chosen 48th overall, will wear the jersey of the Dallas Mavericks. Although he picked up basketball at 16, Lawal's skills improved dramatically during his time at Lee Academy Prep, where he averaged an impressive 14.5 points and 3.0 blocks per game.

Ugonna Onyenso, the 53rd overall pick, has been selected by the Houston Rockets. Onyenso, who played for Nigeria's senior national team at 17, has a unique basketball background that started in Nigeria playing football before transitioning to basketball.

These six players, all of Nigerian descent, are part of the growing list of talented individuals from the continent breaking barriers in international sports.

They will be playing alongside some of the world's top basketball stars and will undoubtedly bring their unique perspectives and skills to the table. As the 2026 NBA season unfolds, fans are sure to be keeping an eye out for these promising newcomers.

Key Facts

  • Ebuka Okorie was the 17th overall pick by the Oklahoma City Thunder.
  • Zuby Ejiofor was drafted 23rd overall by the Atlanta Hawks.
  • Felix Okpara was picked 46th overall by the Orlando Magic.
  • Otega Oweh was selected 41st overall by the Miami Heat, as part of a planned trade.
  • Tobi Lawal was chosen 48th overall by the Dallas Mavericks.
  • Ugonna Onyenso was selected 53rd overall by the Houston Rockets.
  • The 2026 NBA draft saw a record number of players of Nigerian descent making the cut.
  • Three players attended the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal: Felix Okpara, Ugonna Onyenso, and Ebuka Okorie.
  • Felix Okpara and Ugonna Onyenso have a unique basketball background that started in Nigeria playing football before transitioning to basketball.
  • Ebuka Okorie was the youngest ever to suit up for Nigeria's senior national team at 17.
  • Otega Oweh is the brother of Washington Commanders defensive end Odafe Oweh.
  • Tobi Lawal averaged 14.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.0 blocks, and 2.0 steals per game at Lee Academy Prep.

The 2026 NBA draft has undoubtedly left fans excited for the new season, with these six Nigerian-born players ready to make their mark.