WVU Release WVU Men’s Basketball Adds James Okonkwo

[Vernon]

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (July 26, 2021) – James Okonkwo has signed a grant-in-aid to attend and play basketball for West Virginia University during the 2021-22 academic year, coach Bob Huggins announced today.



Okonkwo, a 6-foot-8, 230-pound forward, is a native of Maidenhead, England, and came to the United States last August, where he attended Beckley Prep in Beckley, West Virginia, and played for coach Justin Dempsey. He originally excelled as a tennis player in England and has recently began his basketball career. Okonkwo graduated from Furze Platt Senior School in Maidenhead, England.



Okonkwo only played in limited games last season due to a broken finger and COVID-19. This summer, he is playing for the All-Ohio Red team in AAU basketball.



“James is 17 years old, he’s 6-foot-8 and can run and jump,” Huggins said. “He’s had a great summer, and James is a very good rebounder and shot blocker. He will fit in extremely well with our style of play.”



Okonkwo is expected to enroll at WVU for the fall semester, starting Aug. 18.

 

[WVUALLEN]

Huggins looking at rim protectors after last years poor display. Is he going to be another project? Considering his lack of experience in basketball.

 

[wilmingtoneer]

I think he is doing the Bridges route: Redshirt this year while playing against grown men and then move into the lineup next year. Looks like Bob is getting next year's team ready this year by redshirting the newbies. They will be the scout team against the varsity all year and then be able to move into the rotation next year.

 

[still5-0vstarheels]

Ranked the 88th best player in 2023. He is only 16. Think Bridges with perhaps a a bigger upside. Huggins reloading.