Home / Sports / Baylor Recruit Booed in College Debut: NCAA Rules Clash
Baylor Recruit Booed in College Debut: NCAA Rules Clash
4 Jan
Summary
- James Nnaji, a 2023 NBA draft pick, was booed during his Baylor college debut.
- Concerns are raised about NCAA eligibility for players with professional experience.
- The incident highlights evolving standards in college sports and NIL.
James Nnaji, a 2023 NBA draft pick, experienced a tumultuous college debut for Baylor, being booed by TCU fans throughout their Big 12 opener. The 7-foot Nigerian center, who spent four years playing professionally in Europe before being drafted, accumulated five points and four rebounds in 16 minutes on the court. His entry into the game and every subsequent action were met with audible disapproval from the home crowd.
The reception Nnaji received has ignited discussions about college basketball's evolving eligibility standards. Coaches have expressed criticism regarding the lack of clear rules in college sports, particularly with the advent of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. Baylor coach Scott Drew defended Nnaji, emphasizing that he had done nothing wrong and would be NBA-ready if he were eligible today.
Nnaji, who has four years of eligibility remaining, aims to earn a degree, according to Drew. This situation reflects a broader trend of players with professional experience participating in college basketball, challenging traditional norms and prompting debates about the future of the sport.
