Nigeria’s influence on global basketball was on full display once again as four players of Nigerian heritage heard their names called during the second round of the 2026 NBA Draft. Their selections further highlight the growing impact of Nigerian talent across the NBA pipeline, with players emerging from college programmes in the United States and development pathways around the world.
The quartet of Otega Oweh, Felix Okpara, Tobi Lawal, and Ugonna Onyenso now join a growing list of Nigerians making the leap to professional basketball’s biggest stage. Their journeys differ, but they share a common story of hard work, perseverance, and a connection to Nigeria that continues to shape the sport’s future.
Otega Oweh Leads Nigerian Presence in the Second Round
The first Nigerian-descended player selected in the second round was Otega Oweh, who went 41st overall. The Kentucky Wildcats guard was initially drafted by the Miami Heat before his rights were traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Born to Nigerian parents of Urhobo and Igbo heritage, Oweh built a reputation as one of college basketball’s most reliable two-way players. During his final season at Kentucky, he averaged 18.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game while establishing himself as a strong perimeter defender and transition scorer.
His move to Oklahoma City presents an exciting opportunity. The Thunder have become one of the NBA’s most successful young franchises, and Oweh’s athleticism, defensive intensity, and scoring ability could make him a valuable addition as he begins his professional career. For Nigerian basketball fans, Oweh’s selection serves as another reminder of the growing influence of the country’s diaspora on the global game.
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Felix Okpara and Tobi Lawal Earn NBA Opportunities
A few picks later, Tennessee centre, Felix Okpara, became the next Nigerian player selected when the Orlando Magic chose him with the 46th overall pick. Shortly afterwards, his draft rights were traded to the Washington Wizards.
Born in Owerri, Imo State, Okpara established himself as one of college basketball’s most effective defensive big men. His shot-blocking ability, rebounding, and rim protection made him a key player during his time at Tennessee.
While second-round selections often face an uphill battle to secure long-term NBA roles, Okpara’s defensive strengths give him a solid foundation as he looks to carve out a place in Washington’s rebuilding squad.
Just two picks later, the Dallas Mavericks selected Tobi Lawal with the 48th overall pick. The London-born forward of Nigerian descent has one of the most remarkable stories in this year’s draft class.
Lawal only began playing basketball at age 16, yet his rapid development saw him progress from school basketball in South London to Virginia Tech and eventually the NBA Draft. Known for his athleticism, versatility, and energy on both ends of the court, he has now becomebecomes one of the few British-born players to reach the NBA through the draft.
Ugonna Onyenso Completes Nigerian Representation
The final Nigerian player selected in the second round was Ugonna Onyenso, who went 53rd overall. The Owerri-born centre was drafted before his rights were traded to the Detroit Pistons.
Standing seven feet tall, Onyenso has built a reputation as one of the best defensive prospects in his class. His shot-blocking instincts and ability to protect the rim helped him stand out during stops at Kentucky, Kansas State, and Virginia.
Speaking after the draft, Onyenso reflected on his journey from Africa to the NBA. Having developed through the NBA Academy Africa programme in Senegal before moving to the United States, his selection represents another success story for African basketball development initiatives.
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A Bright Future for Nigerian Basketball
The selection of four Nigerian-descended players in the second round follows another strong year for Nigerian representation in the NBA Draft. Combined with first-round picks Ebuka Okorie and Zuby Ejiofor, six players of Nigerian heritage were selected across both rounds in 2026.
The trend reflects a broader reality. Nigerian talent continues to thrive at every level of basketball, from grassroots programmes across Africa to major universities in the United States and professional leagues worldwide.
As Oweh, Okpara, Lawal, and Onyenso begin their NBA journeys, they carry with them the hopes of fans across Nigeria and the wider African basketball community. Their success stories are further proof that the country’s influence on the sport continues to grow, producing players capable of competing on basketball’s biggest stage.
Which of these newly drafted players do you think will make the biggest impact in the NBA? Share your thoughts in the comments, follow RefinedNG for more inspiring African success stories, and stay updated on the achievements of Nigerian talents making waves around the world.