The 2024 NBA Draft saw three Nigerian-born or descended players selected in the second round, continuing Nigeria’s proud basketball tradition.
The three players have a positive track record in their different fields and aspects of the game. Here is a quick profile of who they are and their strength.
Oso Ighodaro
The Phoenix Suns selected Oso Ighodaro, a promising forward from Marquette University, with their second-round pick in the NBA Draft. Born in Arizona, Ighodaro’s addition to the Suns’ roster allows him to stay close to home and play alongside stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. During his four years at Marquette, Ighodaro developed into a point-center, culminating in an impressive senior season where he averaged 13.4 points and 6.9 rebounds per game.
Ighodaro’s unique playmaking ability sets him apart, particularly for a player of his size. He averaged 2.9 assists per game, peaking at 3.3 assists in his final college season. This skill will be invaluable for the Suns, addressing their need for a playmaker to support their offensive strategy. Off the court, Ighodaro’s excellence continues, having been named the Men’s Basketball Scholar-Athlete of The Year and working towards an MBA, demonstrating his dedication and intellect. Known for his motivational presence, Ighodaro is expected to invigorate the team and contribute to their pursuit of a deeper playoff run.
READ ALSO:Â Nigerian Basketball Talent Adem Bona Drafted by Philadelphia 76ers
Jonathan Mogbo
The Toronto Raptors drafted forward Jonathan Mogbo from the University of San Francisco with the 31st overall pick on the second day of the 2024 NBA Draft. The 22-year-old from West Palm Beach, Florida, stands 6-foot-6.25 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan and played as a small-ball centre in college, averaging 14.2 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Mogbo, known for his defensive versatility and playmaking ability, will bring a unique skill set to the Raptors despite his limited jump-shot capabilities.
Mogbo’s collegiate career began at Independence Community College in Kansas and Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College before he transferred to San Francisco. His physical attributes and smart playmaking make him a promising addition to the Raptors, who recently extended a rookie max contract to his friend and fellow Floridian, Scottie Barnes. Mogbo’s impressive defence and ability to guard multiple positions further enhance his value to the team.
Adem Bona
The Philadelphia 76ers have chosen Nigerian centre Adem Bona with the 41st overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Bona, a 21-year-old standout from UCLA, is known for his relentless work ethic, athleticism, and defensive prowess. Standing 6-foot-9.5 with a 7-foot-3.75 wingspan, Bona averaged 12.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.8 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game in his sophomore season, shooting 58.8% from the field.
Despite his impressive physical attributes, Bona’s offensive game is primarily limited to inside scoring, as he did not attempt a three-pointer last season.
The pick, acquired through a trade with the Boston Celtics involving guard Jaden Springer, adds crucial depth to the Sixers’ roster. While first-round pick Jared McCain from Duke secures a rookie-scale contract, Bona’s future deal remains flexible, ranging from a standard contract to a two-way deal. With the Sixers focusing on bolstering their depth behind star centre Joel Embiid, Bona’s defensive skills and high energy make him a promising addition, potentially earning him a spot on the regular roster.
