How Old Is Big Naija?
Abiodun Adegoke, also known as Big Naija, is a Nigerian amateur basketball player who has gained recognition for his remarkable height. However, there is controversy surrounding his age. Let’s delve into the age controversy surrounding this talented Nigerian basketball player.
In 2016, a news report stated that Adegoke was 17 years old and stood at an impressive height of 2.18 meters. Fast forward to 2022, and this would make him around 23 or 24 years old. However, conflicting reports about his age have persisted, leaving us uncertain of his true age. Some sources suggest he could be anywhere between 18 and 23 years old.
Prior to his rise to prominence, Adegoke attended the Segun Odegbami International College and Sports Academy in Nigeria. He then had the opportunity to showcase his skills in the MPAC Elite Youth League in Dubai. Despite his achievements, the controversy surrounding his age continues to cast a shadow over his burgeoning basketball career.
The Rise of Big Naija
Abiodun Adegoke, also known as Big Naija, has captured the attention of basketball enthusiasts around the world with his unique stature and impressive skills on the court. However, it was his encounter with NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal that propelled him into the spotlight as a viral sensation.
In March 2021, a video surfaced on social media showing Adegoke effortlessly dunking over Shaq, leaving fans in awe of his athleticism and power. The video quickly went viral, amassing millions of views on platforms like Instagram. Shaquille O’Neal, being impressed by Adegoke’s towering presence and talent, took a keen interest in the Nigerian basketball player.
As news of the video spread, so did the speculation about Adegoke’s potential future in the NBA. His remarkable dunk over a basketball icon led to NBA scouts and teams expressing their interest in him. The possibility of Adegoke becoming the tallest player ever drafted into the league became a topic of discussion in the basketball community.
However, it is essential to note that despite the NBA interest and his viral fame, Abiodun Adegoke remains an amateur player. He does not currently have a solid basketball background that would make him eligible for the NBA draft. Nevertheless, his rise to becoming a viral sensation showcases his exceptional talent and potential to leave a lasting impact in the world of basketball.
The Controversy Surrounding Adegoke’s Age
The controversy surrounding Abiodun Adegoke’s age stems from conflicting reports and a lack of concrete evidence. Adegoke himself claimed to be a teenager in 2021, but conflicting reports from Nigeria in 2016 stated that he was already 17 years old. The exact age of Adegoke remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from 18 to 23 years old. The lack of evidence regarding his age raises doubts about his eligibility for professional basketball leagues like the NBA.
Unlikely Path to the NBA
Despite his viral fame and NBA interest, it is highly unlikely that Abiodun Adegoke will play in the NBA. One of the main reasons is his current amateur status, as he has not played professionally in any top-tier basketball leagues. Adegoke’s lack of a solid basketball background also poses challenges to his NBA aspirations.
Without the experience gained from playing in competitive leagues, it becomes difficult for Adegoke to showcase his skills and prove himself against seasoned players. The NBA is known for its intense level of competition, with players honing their skills through years of training and experience.
In addition to his amateur status and lack of basketball background, conflicting reports about Adegoke’s age further complicate his chances of making it to the NBA. Uncertainty surrounding his actual age raises questions about his eligibility for professional leagues. These factors combined make his path to the NBA uncertain and unlikely.
Nevertheless, despite the challenges, Adegoke’s towering presence and viral phenomenon status on social media continue to captivate basketball enthusiasts worldwide. His unique physical attributes and impressive dunking abilities have made him an intriguing figure in the basketball community. While the NBA may not be in his future, Adegoke’s journey and impact serve as a reminder of the exciting possibilities that emerge from the intersection of amateurism, talent, and the viral nature of modern media.
