A Drafted Player’s Return to College

The Baylor Bears welcomed a unique addition to their roster this season: 7-foot center James Nnaji, a player previously drafted by an NBA team and with professional experience in Europe. Nnaji’s arrival marks the first time an NBA-drafted player has been cleared by the NCAA to compete in college basketball, sparking debate and raising questions about the future of NCAA eligibility.

From Nigeria to Barcelona and Beyond

The 21-year-old Nnaji, originally from Makurdi, Nigeria, began his basketball journey in his home country before moving to Hungary in 2018. He then joined FC Barcelona in 2020, eventually making his debut with the first team in January 2022. He quickly made an impact, scoring 10 points and recording 5 blocks in his first ACB match, setting a record for blocks by a player under 18.

Despite initial promise, Nnaji didn’t secure a consistent role with Barcelona’s first team. He was loaned to Bàsquet Girona and later to Merkezefendi in the Turkish Second Division, where his performance was described as “discreet.”

NBA Aspirations and a Return to the States

Nnaji pursued opportunities in the NBA, participating in the Summer League with both the Charlotte Hornets in 2023 and the New York Knicks last summer. However, he was unable to secure a permanent roster spot. His contract with Barcelona was terminated, leaving him without a team.

The New York Knicks currently hold his draft rights after he was initially selected 31st overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2023 NBA draft and subsequently traded to the Hornets.

A Controversial Eligibility and Baylor’s Opportunity

In December 2025, Nnaji unexpectedly found a new opportunity with the Baylor Bears. His eligibility was cleared by the NCAA, despite his professional and NBA draft history, leading to criticism from prominent coaches like Tom Izzo and John Calipari. The decision sparked a nationwide debate about who should be allowed to play college basketball.

“I said, ‘What about James Nnaji, if we could explore that route? Would you guys be interested?'”

Deirunas Visockas, Nnaji’s agent

Nnaji acknowledged the negative reaction, stating, “I was getting a lot of insults and cuss words from people — like really, really, really rude things coming towards me,” and questioning, “But what did I do, man? I’m as young as everybody in here.”

Current Performance at Baylor

As of March 2026, Nnaji’s impact at Baylor has been limited. He is currently averaging 1.5 points and 2.5 rebounds in 9 minutes per game. He saw only one minute of playing time in a recent loss against Arizona Wildcats.

FAQ

What makes James Nnaji’s case unique?

Nnaji is the first NBA-drafted player to be cleared by the NCAA to play college basketball.

Which NBA teams hold the rights to James Nnaji?

The New York Knicks currently hold his draft rights, after he was originally drafted by the Detroit Pistons and traded to the Charlotte Hornets.

Where did James Nnaji play professionally before joining Baylor?

He played for Rátgéber Akadémia, FC Barcelona, Bàsquet Girona and Merkezefendi.