Baylor University men’s basketball coach Scott Drew has publicly defended the signing of former NBA draft pick James Nnaji, responding to criticism about the decision. Nnaji, selected as the 31st overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons, did not play in the NBA, as his rights were subsequently traded to the Charlotte Hornets and later to the New York Knicks. The announcement of Nnaji’s signing came on December 24, 2023, as Baylor navigates a rapidly changing landscape in college basketball.
Nnaji has spent the past three years with FC Barcelona, participating in 51 EuroLeague games while also being loaned to other clubs. His clearance to play in college basketball marks a significant moment, making him the first former NBA draft pick eligible to compete at the NCAA level this season. Drew emphasized the importance of adapting to current trends in college sports to enhance the Bears’ competitiveness.
In the wake of Nnaji’s signing, several coaches across the nation expressed their concerns about the implications of former NBA players returning to college basketball mid-season. Dan Hurley, head coach at UConn, called out the situation on social media, stating, “Santa Claus is delivering mid-season acquisitions… this is crazy!!” Similarly, Mark Few, head coach of Gonzaga, remarked on the lack of organizational rules in the sport, stating, “We really don’t have any organizational or any real rules right now.”
Michigan State’s Tom Izzo also shared his apprehensions, indicating a desire to discuss the matter with Drew. He highlighted the need for accountability within the NCAA, remarking, “If we’re dipping into that one…and now we’re taking guys that were drafted in the NBA, shame on the NCAA. Shame on the coaches, too.” In response, Drew confirmed that he had spoken with Izzo and defended his decision, noting the necessity of adapting to changes in the sport for the benefit of his program.
As a 7-foot center, Nnaji’s physical presence is expected to bring depth to the Baylor lineup, especially following the news that center Juslin Bodo Bodo will miss the remainder of the season due to an arm injury. Additionally, JJ White, a transfer from Omaha, has been sidelined since November 24 due to a foot injury. Drew acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “We know it’s going to take time…he’ll fit in with our culture.”
Though Nnaji is unlikely to debut in the upcoming game against Arlington Baptist on December 25, he is set to undergo a physical examination and begin learning the team’s strategies. Baylor’s Big 12 conference play commences against TCU on December 30, with a subsequent home game against Iowa State scheduled for January 7, 2024.
Drew concluded by reinforcing the need for Nnaji to adapt quickly: “The more we can put him out there, the more he will develop. He’ll be a much better player at the end of the year than he is in the first couple of weeks.” As college basketball continues to evolve, the integration of players like Nnaji may reshape the competitive landscape in the months ahead.
