Baylor basketball is currently embroiled in one of the most controversial topics in college basketball. Last week, the Bears gained a new player halfway through the season and it was 2023 NBA Draft pick James Nnaji.
The 7-foot center committed and signed with Baylor. He is now in Waco and will undergo his medical examination in order to increase playing time. But how did Baylor get a former NBA draft pick? Scott Drew told the media on Sunday that Nnaji had not played in an NBA game and that the The NCAA granted him full eligibility. Ultimately, Drew was told he could play, and that’s all that matters.
Sic’Em! pic.twitter.com/VWGTINvgHX
–Scott Drew (@BUDREW) December 29, 2025
“Yeah, I think about our compliance first,” Drew said of Nnaji’s eligibility. “And Jason could go into detail. It’s something they’ve been working on for several months. So, I’m not trying to skate or get away with it. I just don’t know the intricacies. I know James has never played in an NBA game. And he was drafted, but in the second round, it’s unguaranteed money. Or even any money.
“He played in Summer League, which you get paid a per diem to play for. So, I think he’s getting drafted. There are people in college who were in the draft who weren’t drafted. There are people on the women’s side who were drafted and are playing in college. So, I’m not the expert. So, I don’t want to comment or say things that are inaccurate and mislead that whether it was wrong. I just know they told us he could play. So, I’m happy.”
Called on MSU coach Tom Izzo
Many media members and coaches are not only questioning the NCAA’s decision, but also shaming other coaches for bringing in former NBA players. One of those coaches is legendary MSU coach Tom Izzo. Recently, Izzo was seen talking about the situation and saying he had a call with Scott Drew to discuss the matter.
On Sunday, Drew insisted that he and Izzo are great friends, but until there is some sort of collective bargaining where the rules can be strictly enforced, programs will do what’s best for them — including signing a former 31st overall pick.
“Well, first of all, Coach Izzo and I are friends,” Drew said Sunday night. “I have a lot of respect for him. Great conversation. Like he said, most coaches are 99% in agreement on the things we would like to see accomplished in our game. At the same time, from what I know, until we get to collective bargaining, I don’t think we can come up with rules that are acceptable or enforceable.
“In the meantime, I think we all have to be willing to adjust and adapt to what’s out there. Initially, when the game first came out with the G League players, I wasn’t in favor of that either. But, again, we don’t set the rules. And as we figure things out, we’re always going to adapt to put our program in the best possible position to succeed. Because that’s what we’re paid to do.”
