American Basketball side Celtics have drafted Nigerian basketballer, James Nnaji.
The Markudi born 18-year-old was drafted by the basketball giants at the 2023 NBA draft on Thursday.
He was selected 31st overall by the Celtic in the 2023 NBA Draft presented by State Farm, following his drafting, he is expected to play for the Charlotte Hornets.
Prior to his selection by Celtics, Nnaji who is considered a top prospects in the game plays for Spanish Basketball side, Barcelona.
Nnaji was born and bred in Makurdi Benue State, before he left Nigeria, he was a member of Coach Spencer Chile’s Pearls Basketball Academy in Makurdi.
The player who turns 19 in July and is the 2nd youngest prospect in the draft.
This draft into the NBA has continued to excite Nigerians, who have taken to social media to express their excitement.
A tweep @NigerianWave tweeted,”Hearing most people in 9ja say James Nnaji was the only Nigerian drafted to the NBA last night…From experience I would say just be patient.Some of them don’t have Nigerian names.”
Another Tweep @Euphoria_Sticks, tweeted, “A son of the Benue. A proud moment for Nigerian James Nnaji.”
Also @TayoSalaam, tweeted,”Ladies and Gentlemen, meet the only Nigerian drafted in the 2023 NBA draft, 18-year-old James Nnaji (31st).
“From Markudi ➡️ the Charlotte Hornets via Detroit ➡️ Boston, Barcelona ⬅️ Hungary.”
