Baylor men’s basketball has secured a commitment from Nigerian center James Nnaji, a towering 7-foot-0, 250-pound player who is set to join the team as a midseason transfer. Nnaji could debut for the Bears in their final non-conference matchup on December 29 or at the beginning of the spring semester in January.
This marks an unusual move, given that Nnaji was selected 31st overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2023 NBA Draft. His draft rights were subsequently traded to the Charlotte Hornets, for whom he played in the Summer League. In 2024, his rights were transferred once more to the New York Knicks in a noteworthy three-team trade involving NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns. Nnaji participated in the Knicks’ Summer League in 2025, but has yet to play in an actual NBA game.
This development underscores a significant shift in the NCAA landscape, especially in light of recent changes that allow G-League players to return to college basketball. As noted by sources, this trend illustrates the evolving definition of amateurism within the NCAA, particularly as college athletes have gained more financial freedom through NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities.
Before his return to college basketball, Nnaji played with FC Barcelona from 2020 to 2024, where he gained valuable experience, and was loaned to Girona in the Spanish Liga ACB, averaging 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks over 14 games. He subsequently wrapped up the 2024-2025 season with Merkezefendi in Turkey, contributing 7.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks over eight contests.
Baylor’s decision to pursue a midseason transfer comes in light of the team’s current roster challenges. The Bears are facing a shortage of healthy big men, with senior Caden Powell being the only available option. With Nnaji’s impressive 7-foot-7 wingspan, he is anticipated to make a significant impact as the conference season approaches.
Additionally, Baylor is managing the absence of key players, including High Point transfer center Juslin Bodo Bodo, who is set to redshirt due to injury, and true freshmen big men Maikcol Perez and Mayo Soyoye, both of whom will miss the season due to injuries.
At just 21 years old, Nnaji brings four years of eligibility to Baylor and is a promising addition to the team’s frontcourt, representing a hopeful step forward as they navigate this season’s challenges. Notably, Nnaji is not related to former Arizona star and current Denver Nugget Zeke Nnaji.