James Nnaji, the 31st pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, has decided to play for Baylor University. This move is fresh, as he quickly gained four years of NCAA eligibility. Fans are eager to see him on the court, especially for the Big 12 opener against TCU on January 3.
Initially drafted by the Detroit Pistons, Nnaji was traded to the Charlotte Hornets and later to the New York Knicks in 2024 as part of a bigger deal involving Karl-Anthony Towns. Despite being drafted, he never played in the NBA or the G League, making him eligible for college basketball. Over the past two years, he played professionally overseas, including a stint with Girona in Spain. He also participated in five NBA Summer League games for the Knicks, where he averaged 3.2 points and 3.6 rebounds.
Nnaji isn’t the only player making waves by returning to the NCAA after stints in professional basketball. For instance, Thierry Darlan joined Santa Clara after two years in the G League, and he was the first player to earn NCAA eligibility under these circumstances. Similar moves are sparking debates. After London Johnson arrived at Louisville following two seasons of professional play, Michigan State coach Tom Izzo expressed his frustration. He argued that the NCAA needs to clarify its rules as this shift creates confusion among coaches and programs.
The impact of these decisions is significant, especially for teams like Baylor, who are facing injuries to key players. With forward Maikcol Perez and center Juslin Bodo Bodo out for the season, the Bears hope Nnaji can fill some gaps and strengthen their lineup.
Recent trends show that this pathway of returning to college basketball after professional play is becoming more common. According to a survey by the NCAA, about 15% of college players in recent years had previous professional experience, indicating a shift in how young athletes navigate their careers. Some argue that this could level the playing field in college sports, while others worry it undermines the spirit of amateurism.
As discussions around these changes continue, it’s clear that Nnaji’s commitment to Baylor is more than just a personal decision; it’s part of a broader trend reshaping college basketball today.
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Baylor Bears, Men's College Basketball, NBA
