Newly signed Houston Rockets guard Josh Okogie was a standout for his native Nigeria during Friday’s FIBA AfroBasket 2025 action.
In Nigeria’s 87-66 victory over Tunisia (box score), Okogie finished with 33 points and 6 rebounds in 24 minutes while making 12-of-19 shots (63.2%), 3-of-7 from 3-point range (42.9%), and all six of his free throws.
Nigeria will continue its play Sunday with a group-stage match versus Cameroon. Okogie is the only NBA player on the D’Tigers squad.
Over his NBA years, Okogie has primarily provided value as a standout perimeter defender with relentless energy. So, from a Houston perspective, breakout games on offense would effectively be a bonus.
For a Houston squad that prides itself on elite defense, Okogie could become a tempting reserve option for head coach Ime Udoka — and especially if the shooting and scoring is sustainable.
Last season with the Phoenix Suns and Charlotte Hornets, Okogie shot a career-best 34.8% on 3-pointers. He’s now 26 years old and should be in his NBA prime.
This article originally appeared on Rockets Wire: Rockets guard Josh Okogie shines as Nigeria cruises to AfroBasket win
Reporting by Ben DuBose, Rockets Wire / Rockets Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
