Uche Okafor

Full Name: Ejelu Uche Okafor
Position: Center
Height/Weight: 6-11 / 245
Birthdate: March 21, 1981 (Anambra State, Nigeria)
College: Missouri (Did Not Play)

BACKGROUND
Played in the USBL in the summer of 2003 with the Adirondack Wildcats and Brooklyn Kings. Appeared in 22 total games, averaging 5.5 points and 3.4 rebounds while blocking 30 shots. Spent the 2002-03 season playing with the Dakota Lightning in the XBL, which was later named the Midwest Basketball Association. Helped the Lightning to the regular season title, scoring 15 points and grabbing 12 rebounds in the game that secured a first place finish. In the league championship game, scored eight points to help Dakota down the Buffalo City Thunder, 119-103. Originally an early candidate for the 2002 NBA Draft before withdrawing his name from consideration.

During the 2001-02 season, was expected to play at Missouri but was denied eligibility by the NCAA. Was one of three celebrated Nigerian basketball players who were brought to Russia in 1999 under questionable circumstances and had college eligibility problems due to their brief stay ever since. Signed to play at and attend Missouri in April of 2001. Was rated the #2 junior college prospect in the nation by CBS Sportsline.com and #6 by PrepStars.

As a sophomore at Southern Idaho, averaged 9.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.4 blocked shots. Led team in rebounding. Helped team to a 29-4 overall record and a #4 national NJCAA ranking. Was named Honorable Mention All-Region 18.

As a freshman, averaged 5.5 points and 5.0 rebounds in limited minutes. Helped team finish with a 29-5 overall record and advance to the national NJCAA Tournament.