NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 10: Jahlil Okafor #8 of the New Orleans Pelicans celebrates his dunk in the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on January 10, 2020 in New York City.The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the New York Knicks 123-111.NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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Jahlil Okafor Opts to Play for Nigeria at Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games

By Our reporter On Feb 24, 2020 0

New Orleans Pelicans center, Jahlil Okafor, has committed to representing Nigeria at the Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo.

H/T Bleacher Okafor told ESPN’s Marc J. Spears Sunday night that he will play for the Nigerian men’s basketball team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Drafted by the Sixers in 2015 as a first round third pick, the Center is eligible to play for Nigeria through his Grand Father who hails from Enugu.

He had previously represented the USA in the age grade, winning gold medals in the 2013 FIBA U19 World Championship, 2012 FIBA U17 World Championships and 2011 FIBA Americas U16 Championship.

The 24 year-old adds to the growing number of NBA Stars likely to compete for Nigeria in Tokyo.

Minnesota Timberwolves Forward Josh Okogie made his international appearance for Nigeria at the World Cup in China.

Nigeria Basketball Federation also announced the move on social media, Monday, welcoming Okafor’s decision.

Earlier this month the NBBF named former Golden State Warriors assistant Coach Mike Brown as Head Coach of D’Tigers for the campaign in Tokyo.

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