Denver Nuggets forward Ezekiel Tobechukwu “Zeke” Nnaji may have grown up thousands of miles from Africa, but his heart has remained firmly connected to Nigeria.
Now 24, the NBA star is using his platform to invest in the lives of underprivileged youth in Nigeria, combining sports and education to create long-term opportunities for the next generation.
From Minneapolis to the NBA
Born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Nnaji initially played baseball and football before switching to basketball, largely due to his height. A talented musician who has played piano since first grade, he displayed a wide range of interests early on.
However, it was basketball that eventually charted his course to international recognition.
Nnaji played college basketball at the University of Arizona and was selected 22nd overall by the Denver Nuggets in the 2020 NBA Draft. Since then, he has grown into a key contributor for the team. Standing at 2.11 meters, the dynamic forward also brings versatility by playing center when needed.
His father, Apham Nnaji, originally from Nigeria, has been a guiding figure and inspiration throughout his journey.
A Promise Fulfilled
At just 10 years old, Zeke made a bold promise to his father: “Dad, when I make it to the NBA, I’m going to help a lot of people.” Years later, he’s doing exactly that.
With his second NBA contract providing financial stability, Nnaji launched the Nnaji Foundation, which has partnered with the NBA to build a basketball academy in Nigeria—his father’s homeland. The initiative is not just about sports but about empowering young people through life skills and educational opportunities.
“I’m really thankful and humbled that I get to live out my dream every single day,” Nnaji said. “But it’s also important for me to give back, especially to a place that is part of who I am.”
The Nnaji Foundation’s Mission
During a recent trip to Nigeria, the Foundation witnessed both the struggles and the strength of local communities. Apham Nnaji recalled the harsh realities of his youth, saying, “The challenges and the depravity in Nigeria and Africa are a whole lot. I grew up there and I’ve seen how hard things are.”
Despite the conditions, the team discovered resilience and hope.
“The first thing you see is poverty,” said Kerry Sutherland, a representative of the Nnaji Foundation, “but right after that, you see the resilience. This academy is a beacon of hope.”
According to Sutherland, the program’s focus is to teach basketball, but with broader life applications in mind. “We want the lessons learned on the court—discipline, teamwork, dedication—to carry over into all areas of life.”
Beyond Basketball: Building a Future
For Zeke Nnaji, the mission goes far beyond the hardwood. “Young people can learn how to create with their hands—mechanics, computing, machinery, design engineering,” he explained. “The point is to give them options. It’s not just about basketball. It’s about having the freedom to choose your path.”
A self-taught pianist, Nnaji understands the importance of diverse interests. “Being able to finally be in this position, it’s really incredible. It’s moving. It’s fun.”
His commitment is already leaving an impression. Sutherland noted, “All the kids are wonderful. You talk about humility—these kids are just so thankful and appreciative of the opportunity.”
Giving Back, Looking Forward
Now a millionaire athlete living his dream, Zeke remains focused on a larger purpose: honoring his roots and creating change.
“This foundation is about remembering where we came from,” he said. “Where my dad grew up, there are kids with big dreams. We want to help make those dreams a reality.”
Apham Nnaji offered a closing reflection: “We teach our kids that just because you have an opportunity doesn’t mean you stop there. You must help those who have less, because that’s what the Most High wants us to do.”
From a childhood dream in Minneapolis to meaningful impact in Nigeria, Zeke Nnaji is proving that greatness begins with purpose—and that the journey doesn’t end with personal success.
Through the Nnaji Foundation, he is helping shape a future where sports, education, and opportunity walk hand in hand.
