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TCU Defeats Baylor 69-63 in James Nnaji’s Boos-Filled College Debut

The NCAA cleared the 2023 draft pick because he never signed an NBA contract, within its five-year window from high school.

Overview

  • Nnaji, a 7-foot center drafted 31st in 2023, logged five points and four rebounds in about 16 minutes off the bench in Fort Worth.
  • TCU controlled most of the game and closed out Baylor late, with Micah Robinson posting 13 points and 10 rebounds for the Horned Frogs.
  • Home fans booed Nnaji upon entry and on touches, reflecting broader backlash from coaches who argue his eligibility blurs pro–college lines.
  • Baylor coach Scott Drew defended the move and noted Nnaji arrived after Christmas and had not played five-on-five since the summer, signaling a gradual ramp-up.
  • The NCAA says players who signed NBA contracts are ineligible, but those without such deals may qualify; Nnaji retains four years of eligibility as Baylor next hosts No. 3 Iowa State.