Two years after hearing his name called on draft night, James Nnaji is taking an unusual step by entering college basketball.
His agents at Gersh Sports told Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress that the former 31st overall pick has enrolled at Baylor University and will be immediately eligible to play this season, a rare scenario in recent NCAA history.
Nnaji was drafted in 2023 by the Charlotte Hornets, with his rights later sent to the New York Knicks in a three-team deal, but he never signed an NBA contract and continued playing overseas.
While more international prospects have joined NCAA programs after professional experience abroad, doing so after being drafted is still uncommon.
The NCAA has granted Nnaji four years of eligibility, a decision that could influence future draft-and-stash players.
The 21-year-old previously played for FC Barcelona and spent time on loan in Turkey and Spain, most recently with Girona.
With Baylor’s frontcourt thinned by injuries, Nnaji has a clear opportunity to earn a role, while the Knicks can now track his development up close as they retain his NBA rights.
Two years after being drafted, James Nnaji will play college basketball: https://t.co/gGBNstx1Z1
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 25, 2025
