Hakeem Olajuwon paved the way for Africans to enter the NBA 40 years ago and left an indelible mark in history. His record-breaking achievements and victories have set an example for the careers of three young African-linked star centers today.
Ulrich Chomche from Cameroon became the youngest player ever drafted in NBA history. Nigerian-born Adem Bona and Yves Missi, who was born in Central Africa, were also part of the draft.
Currently, 10% of the NBA player pool consists of players with African parentage. These three young players earned their spots in the NBA, joining the rosters of the Toronto Raptors, New Orleans Pelicans, and Philadelphia 76ers.
Regarding this, NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum made the following statement to BBC Sport Africa:
“You’re seeing an incredible amount of talent coming out of the continent. Two of the last three Most Valuable Players were Joel Embiid, from Cameroon, and Giannis Antetokounmpo who has Nigerian roots.
Victor Wembanyama, the number one draft pick and the Rookie of the Year this past year, again, has African roots.”
In fact, according to professionals, Joel Embiid might bring the 76ers their long-awaited championship, which they’ve been without for 40 years, this season. Five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher agreed with this view, stating:
“Joel has spoken about wanting to stay healthy specifically for the NBA play-offs. We’ve never seen Joel healthy in the play-offs before. If that happens, I do think that makes the 76ers a team to watch in the Eastern Conference.”
