James Nnaji, the 21-year-old Nigerian center selected in the 2023 NBA Draft, made a controversial debut for Baylor University on Saturday.

Just ten days after signing with the Bears, the 7-foot (2.13m) Nnaji played his first U.S. college game in a 69-63 loss at Texas Christian University. The former Barcelona player, who was booed by TCU fans every time he touched the ball, logged just over 16 minutes on the court, finishing with five points on 2-of-3 shooting, one rebound, four assists, and a free throw.

Nnaji’s journey has been unconventional. He joined Barcelona in 2020, competed in EuroLeague matches, and had loan stints with Spanish and Turkish clubs. Drafted 31st overall by Detroit in 2023, he appeared in Summer League games but never played an official NBA contest. His draft rights were later traded to Charlotte, then to New York in 2024 as part of a three-team deal that sent Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks.

The NCAA cleared Nnaji to play because he has not participated in the NBA or another college program and is within five years of his high school graduation. While three former G-League players were also approved to play in college this season, Nnaji’s signing has raised concerns about a potential trend of mid-season acquisitions of professional players. NCAA rules currently bar players who have signed NBA contracts, though future legal challenges are possible.

The rise of NIL (name, image, and likeness) deals has made college programs increasingly attractive, offering sponsorship earnings that can rival some professional contracts. Hall of Fame coach Tom Izzo, who has led Michigan State for 30 years, was critical of Nnaji’s signing.

“Now we’re taking guys that were drafted in the NBA. If that’s what we’re going through, shame on the NCAA,” Izzo said. “Shame on the coaches, too. But shame on the NCAA, because coaches are going to do what they’ve got to do.”

Baylor coach Scott Drew acknowledged the criticism but emphasized the need to adapt.

“I had a great conversation with Tom about this,” Drew said. “Most coaches are 99% aligned on what we’d like to see for our game, but until collective bargaining resolves these rules, we have to adjust and adapt.”

For now, Drew is focused on integrating Nnaji into Baylor’s roster.

“James is a really talented young player with a ton of potential, and we’re excited to welcome him to the Baylor family,” Drew said. “Adding someone mid-season takes time, but we’ll help him acclimate step by step to ensure it’s best for both him and the team. He has a wealth of international experience, and we’re looking forward to seeing him make an impact on the court.”