James Nnaji: Stats | College | Draft | Age | NBA Draft | Knicks

James Nnaji has emerged as one of the most intriguing basketball prospects of the mid-2020s. A Nigerian center with rare size and physical tools, his journey from international basketball in Spain to the NBA Draft — and an unusual transition into U.S. college basketball with Baylor — is a story that has captivated fans, analysts, and scouts alike. Known as a Knicks draft rights holder after a series of trades, Nnaji’s future appears bright, even as he navigates an unconventional path that blends professional and collegiate stages. 

Early Life & Background

James Ugochukwu Nnaji was born on August 14, 2004, in Makurdi, Nigeria. From an early age, his towering height — eventually listed around 7’0″ (213 cm) with an extraordinary 7’7″ wingspan — made him a natural fit for basketball. Nnaji began playing competitively in his teens, drawing attention for his athleticism, shot-blocking instincts, and physical presence in the paint. 

Physical Profile

• Position: Center

• Height: ~7’0″ (213 cm)

• Weight: ~250 lbs (113 kg)

• Wingspan: ~7’7″

• Birthdate: August 14, 2004

• Age: 21 (as of 2025)

His size, combined with his developing skillset, made him a highly intriguing NBA prospect despite being relatively raw offensively. Scouts highlighted his elite physical tools and rim-protection upside — traits coveted in modern big men.

International Career: FC Barcelona & Loan Spells

Before entering the NBA Draft, Nnaji’s early professional years were spent overseas:

FC Barcelona (Spain)

Nnaji signed with FC Barcelona’s system as a teenager. Despite limited minutes due to the club’s deep roster, the experience offered exposure in both the Liga ACB and EuroLeague — leagues renowned for their high level of competition. 

Loan Stints

• Girona (Spain): On loan, Nnaji played regular minutes, showing glimpses of his potential with averages around 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game in league play. 

• Yukatel Merkezefendi (Turkey): Nnaji also spent time in the Turkish league, continuing his growth in a competitive environment. 

Though not eye-popping, these stints helped refine his instincts against seasoned professionals and contributed to his draft stock. 

2023 NBA Draft: Nnaji’s Big Moment

Nnaji declared for the 2023 NBA Draft as an international prospect with strong defensive metrics and the physical traits teams covet:

• Drafted: 31st overall in 2023

• Original Team: Detroit Pistons

• Draft Night Trades: Rights sent to Charlotte Hornets and later to the New York Knicks in a blockbuster deal involving Karl-Anthony Towns. 

At the time of the draft, he was 18 years old and ranked among the youngest prospects in the pool. NBA draft insiders praised his rim protection and athleticism, while noting that his offensive game was still a work in progress. 

NBA Summer League & Knicks Connection

After being drafted, Nnaji did not immediately sign an NBA contract — a sequence that changed the trajectory of his career:

• Summer League Appearances:
  Nnaji played for the Knicks’ Summer League team, posting averages of roughly 3.2 points and 3.6 rebounds per game. 

• No NBA Regular Season Contract:
  Despite summer league showings, the Knicks did not offer him a full NBA contract, leaving his rights with the organization. 

• NBA Rights:
  The Knicks continue to retain his draft rights, meaning if he eventually joins the NBA, it would likely be with New York — unless a future trade occurs. 

This unique situation — retaining rights while not being on a roster — opened the door for an unprecedented next chapter. 

Baylor Bears: Unprecedented College Career

In December 2025, Nnaji made headlines by committing to Baylor University — a rare move for an NBA draft pick:

• College Team: Baylor Bears (Big 12 Conference)

• Eligibility: Granted four years by the NCAA

• Reason: Although drafted and having played overseas professionally, he never signed an NBA contract, preserving his NCAA eligibility under current rules. 

This move marks a historic twist: it’s unusual for a drafted player with professional experience to enter NCAA basketball mid-career. Analysts say it could pave the way for future similar transitions. 

At Baylor, Nnaji adds size, rebounding, and defensive presence to a team dealing with frontcourt injuries. His presence is expected to make an immediate impact in Big 12 play. 

Career Statistics & On-Court Profile

Because Nnaji has not played regular NBA games, official NBA stats are limited. According to official NBA pages, his pro career numbers in NBA leagues do not yet register typical statistics like points, rebounds, and blocks. 

However, from his international and Summer League outings, the following trends are noted:

International Play (Approximate)

• Girona (Spain): ~5.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG

• Merkezefendi (Turkey): Similar production in rebounds and points

• Barcelona: Limited minutes but quality development experience 

Summer League

• Points: ~3.2 PPG

• Rebounds: ~3.6 RPG 

These numbers paint a picture of a young player still finding his footing on offense while using his physical tools on defense and rebounding. 

Strengths

Elite length & athleticism
Rim protection & defensive presence
Rebounding instincts
Paint scoring and physical finishing

Areas for Growth

Ball handling & perimeter skill
Consistency in scoring opportunities
Offensive versatility

Experts see him as a potential NBA backup center with starter upside if he continues refining his skills. 

Future Outlook & NBA Prospects

James Nnaji’s path places him at a crossroads of college and professional hoops:

• Short-Term: Impact player for Baylor in the NCAA

• Mid-Term: Potential NBA contract with the Knicks or another franchise

• Long-Term: A rotational big man capable of defense and rim protection in the NBA

While his college season will significantly influence his draft value in future NBA entry drafts or free-agent signings, scouts believe his combination of size, instincts, and athleticism gives him the foundation needed for an impactful NBA role. 

Summary: What Makes James Nnaji Unique

James Nnaji is more than just a basketball player — he’s a trailblazer in modern player pathways. Here’s what sets him apart:

Drafted NBA Player who never signed an NBA contract, preserving college eligibility. 
International experience across elite Spanish and Turkish leagues. 
Unconventional path to NCAA that could reshape how draft and eligibility rules are viewed. 
Draft Rights held by Knicks offering future NBA opportunities. 

Whether he becomes a cornerstone in the NCAA, a future NBA starter, or a hybrid international star, Nnaji’s story is just beginning. His physical gifts combined with evolving skillsets make him a player to watch closely in the next several years. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How old is James Nnaji?
A1: James Nnaji was born on August 14, 2004, making him 21 years old in December 2025. 

Q2: Which NBA team drafted James Nnaji?
A2: He was drafted 31st overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2023 NBA Draft, with draft rights traded to the Charlotte Hornets and then the New York Knicks. 

Q3: Has Nnaji played in the NBA?
A3: Nnaji has played Summer League games and participated in Knicks workouts but has not yet signed an NBA regular-season contract. 

Q4: Why is he eligible to play college basketball?
A4: Since Nnaji never signed an NBA contract, the NCAA granted him eligibility, allowing him to join Baylor mid-season with four years of eligibility. 

Q5: What are Nnaji’s key strengths?
A5: He’s known for his elite size, athleticism, rim protection, and rebounding ability — traits that make him a valuable center prospect.