James Nnaji has officially entered the history books, becoming the first player to score points in a college basketball game after already being selected in the NBA Draft.
Baylor took the floor against TCU with one of the most unique storylines college basketball has ever seen. Nnaji, a former first-round NBA draft pick, made his long-awaited college debut and quickly turned it into a historic moment, drawing national attention as Big 12 play continues.
The 21-year-old center brings an unconventional path to Waco. Nnaji was selected 31st overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, with his rights initially tied to the Charlotte Hornets before later being traded to the New York Knicks. A native of Nigeria, he developed overseas with FC Barcelona, gaining valuable professional experience against high-level competition in Europe.
James Nnaji is officially the first person to score points in a college basketball game after already being drafted in the NBA pic.twitter.com/UjI0H9wEop
— College Basketball Content (@CBBcontent) January 3, 2026
Before arriving at Baylor, Nnaji also appeared in NBA Summer League action on two separate occasions. In 2023, he played five games for the Charlotte Hornets, averaging 3.2 points and 3.6 rebounds per game in limited minutes. After his rights were traded to New York, he returned to Summer League play with the Knicks in 2025, continuing to showcase his potential despite never signing an NBA contract or appearing in an official NBA regular-season game.
That distinction proved crucial to his eligibility. Under current NCAA rules, a player may compete at the college level as long as they have not signed an NBA contract or played in an NBA regular-season or playoff game. Participation in NBA Summer League or professional play overseas does not automatically disqualify a player. Because Nnaji met those conditions, the NCAA ruled him eligible to play college basketball.
Still, his arrival at Baylor has sparked debate throughout the sport. Several high-profile coaches, including Tom Izzo, John Calipari, and Dan Hurley, have publicly questioned the ruling and the precedent it could set moving forward. Even as Nnaji suits up in a Baylor uniform, the New York Knicks continue to hold his NBA draft rights adding another layer to one of the most unusual situations in recent college basketball history.
As Baylor and TCU tipped off, Nnaji’s presence alone made the game historic. What comes next will continue to be closely watched across both the college and professional basketball worlds.
More college basketball news:
- Rick Pitino reacts to St. John’s opening win
- Ohio State loses point guard commitment
- AJ Dybansta makes debut for BYU
- Jalen Rose on TNT college basketball coverage