Ugonna Onyenso Ready to Anchor Detroit Defense

Rebuilding His NBA Dream

Ugonna Onyenso once feared his professional basketball dreams had slipped away. He arrived in the United States through NBA Academy Africa and Putnam Science Academy in Connecticut. He also played for Nigeria's national team, D'Tigers, before joining Kentucky in 2022. However, a foot injury disrupted his sophomore season, prompting a transfer to Kansas State.

That stay did not go as planned. He averaged 2.8 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks in 24 games, making just two starts. Onyenso admitted he thought he had no shot left at the NBA and expected to play overseas. He moved to Virginia, where his career found new life. He averaged 6.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game, earning a spot on the ACC All Defensive team.

Replacing Stewart in the Paint

On draft night, Onyenso expected to go undrafted or land at pick 60, where the Milwaukee Bucks had expressed interest. Instead, his name was called at pick 53. Detroit acquired him for cash considerations after trades involving Houston and New York.

Now, the 22 year old center from Owerri, Nigeria, looks to fill the void left by Isaiah Stewart. Detroit traded Stewart to the Memphis Grizzlies for three future second round picks. Onyenso plans to provide defense and rim protection. He is working closely with assistant coach Assane Sene, who also played at Virginia. Sene pointed to Phoenix Suns center Khaman Maluach as an example of how African big men can grow into the league by building strength and learning floor spacing.

What it means for the next game

Detroit begins the regular season with two quick matchups on the schedule.

Boston Celtics at Detroit Pistons (NBA, Tue, 20 Oct): Detroit Pistons win 47%, Boston Celtics win 53%; projected score Detroit Pistons 110, Boston Celtics 111. Our safest pick: Pistons +9.5.

Detroit Pistons at Miami Heat (NBA, Sat, 24 Oct): Miami Heat win 44%, Detroit Pistons win 56%; projected score Miami Heat 117, Detroit Pistons 119. Our safest pick: Heat +10.5.