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Gabe Vincent
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Gabriel Nnamdi Vincent (born June 14, 1996) is a Nigerian-American professional basketball player for the Atlanta Hawks of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Nigerian national basketball team.[1] He played college basketball for the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos. Undrafted out of college, Vincent signed with the Stockton Kings of the NBA G League before joining the Miami Heat on a two-way contract. With Miami, he reached the NBA Finals in 2020 and 2023 before signing with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Key Information
Early life and education
[edit]Vincent was born in Modesto, California, to Franklyn and Cynthia Vincent.[2] His father is Nigerian and his American mother is from Connecticut. They both earned doctorates in psychology.[3][4] The youngest of three brothers, Vincent attended St. Mary's High School in Stockton.[3]
Vincent played college basketball for University of California, Santa Barbara from 2014 to 2018, averaging 12.8 points in 113 games. After his senior season, he was named to the 2018 All-Big West Second Team.
Career
[edit]Sacramento Kings (2018–2020)
[edit]After graduating, Vincent had a pre-draft workout with the Sacramento Kings.[5] Although he went undrafted in the 2018 NBA draft, he signed an Exhibit 10 contract with Sacramento on October 2.[6] He was waived a few days later.[7] He played 24 games, with three starts, for the Stockton Kings of the NBA G League during the 2018–19 season, averaging 8.8 points in 18.6 minutes per game.[8] He scored 35 points in a game twice for the Kings in December 2019.[9] Vincent played in 20 games (three starts) in his second season with Stockton while averaging 23.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.30 steals per game and shooting 46.9 percent from the field, 41.2 percent from three-point range and 89.7 percent from the free throw line.[10]
Miami Heat (2020–2023)
[edit]On January 8, 2020, the Miami Heat announced that they had signed Vincent to a two-way contract.[10] He made his NBA debut against the Orlando Magic on January 29.[11] In the G League, Vincent tallied 27 points, three assists and one rebound in a win over the Salt Lake City Stars on February 3.[12] He averaged 20.9 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game in 31 G League games. On June 22, 2020, the NBA G League announced that Vincent won the Most Improved Player award.[13] The Heat reached the 2020 NBA Finals, but lost in six games to the Los Angeles Lakers.
On August 1, 2021, Vincent joined the Heat for the NBA Summer League[14] and five days later, he signed a standard contract with the Heat.[15]
In game 3 of the 2023 Eastern Conference Finals, Vincent scored a playoff career high of 29 points in a 128–102 win to give the Heat a 3–0 lead over the Boston Celtics.[16] The Heat eventually advanced to the NBA Finals after winning the series in seven games. In game 2 of the 2023 NBA Finals, Vincent had a team-high 23 points in a 111–108 win over the Denver Nuggets to tie the series 1–1.[17] Vincent struggled to shoot from the three-point line in the NBA Finals, shooting just 33% from beyond the arc.[citation needed] The Heat went on to lose the series in five games.
Los Angeles Lakers (2023–2026)
[edit]On July 6, 2023, Vincent signed a three-year, $33 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers.[18] He made only 11 appearances for the Lakers in the 2023–24 NBA season, averaging 3.1 points, 0.8 rebounds and 1.9 assists.[19]
Vincent made 72 appearances (including 11 starts) for Los Angeles during the 2024–25 season, averaging 6.4 points, 1.3 rebounds and 1.4 assists.[20] He played in 29 games (including seven starts) for the team in the 2025–26 season, posting averages of 4.8 points, 0.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists.[21]
Atlanta Hawks (2026–present)
[edit]On February 5, 2026, Vincent and a future second-round pick were traded to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for guard Luke Kennard.[22]
National team career
[edit]Vincent represents the Nigerian national team, D'Tigers. On August 24, 2019, he scored 23 points against Poland, including the game-winning three-pointer with 0.3 seconds left.[23] He represented the Nigerian team at the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup in China.[24]
Career statistics
[edit]| GP | Games played | GS | Games started | MPG | Minutes per game |
| FG% | Field goal percentage | 3P% | 3-point field goal percentage | FT% | Free throw percentage |
| RPG | Rebounds per game | APG | Assists per game | SPG | Steals per game |
| BPG | Blocks per game | PPG | Points per game | Bold | Career high |
NBA
[edit]Regular season
[edit]| Year | Team | GP | GS | MPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019–20 | Miami | 9 | 0 | 9.2 | .216 | .222 | – | .6 | .7 | .6 | .0 | 2.4 |
| 2020–21 | Miami | 50 | 7 | 13.1 | .378 | .309 | .870 | 1.1 | 1.3 | .4 | .0 | 4.8 |
| 2021–22 | Miami | 68 | 27 | 23.4 | .417 | .368 | .815 | 1.9 | 3.1 | .9 | .2 | 8.7 |
| 2022–23 | Miami | 68 | 34 | 25.9 | .402 | .334 | .872 | 2.1 | 2.5 | .9 | .1 | 9.4 |
| 2023–24 | L.A. Lakers | 11 | 0 | 19.8 | .306 | .107 | .500 | .8 | 1.9 | .8 | .0 | 3.1 |
| 2024–25 | L.A. Lakers | 72 | 11 | 21.2 | .400 | .353 | .714 | 1.3 | 1.4 | .7 | .2 | 6.4 |
| Career | 278 | 79 | 21.0 | .396 | .337 | .831 | 1.6 | 2.0 | .8 | .1 | 7.2 | |
Playoffs
[edit]| Year | Team | GP | GS | MPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Miami | 1 | 0 | .3 | — | — | — | .0 | .0 | .0 | .0 | 0.0 |
| 2021 | Miami | 3 | 0 | 4.7 | .667 | .500 | — | .3 | .7 | .0 | .0 | 1.7 |
| 2022 | Miami | 18 | 8 | 23.5 | .382 | .309 | .950 | 1.9 | 3.2 | .8 | .3 | 8.0 |
| 2023 | Miami | 22 | 22 | 30.5 | .402 | .378 | .882 | 1.4 | 3.5 | .9 | .2 | 12.7 |
| 2024 | L.A. Lakers | 5 | 0 | 13.8 | .250 | .143 | — | 1.6 | .6 | .4 | .0 | 1.4 |
| 2025 | L.A. Lakers | 5 | 0 | 19.8 | .357 | .308 | — | 1.0 | 1.0 | .2 | .4 | 2.8 |
| Career | 54 | 30 | 24.1 | .392 | .345 | .907 | 1.5 | 2.7 | .7 | .2 | 8.3 | |
College
[edit]| Year | Team | GP | GS | MPG | FG% | 3P% | FT% | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | PPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014–15 | UC Santa Barbara | 28 | 21 | 26.2 | .424 | .416 | .660 | 2.1 | 2.1 | .9 | .1 | 10.1 |
| 2015–16 | UC Santa Barbara | 33 | 32 | 32.0 | .406 | .385 | .808 | 3.2 | 2.2 | 1.2 | .2 | 14.1 |
| 2016–17 | UC Santa Barbara | 20 | 18 | 32.0 | .355 | .329 | .762 | 3.7 | 2.4 | .8 | .1 | 14.8 |
| 2017–18 | UC Santa Barbara | 32 | 30 | 29.1 | .450 | .377 | .805 | 1.9 | 3.3 | 1.1 | .2 | 12.4 |
| Career | 113 | 101 | 29.7 | .409 | .376 | .769 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 1.0 | .2 | 12.8 | |
References
[edit]- ^ "Aminu, Obekpa, Okoye arrive as D'Tigers open FIBA World Cup camp". The Guardian. July 11, 2018. Retrieved August 27, 2019.
- ^ "Gabe Vincent – 2017–18 – Men's Basketball". University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved December 4, 2023.
- ^ a b "During Our Interview It Is Clear To See That Vincent Has An Intense Work Ethic, Is Very Grounded, Humble, And Is A Man of Strong Faith". Contemporary Approaches. February 11, 2021. Retrieved July 11, 2021.
- ^ Beguiristain, Joe (May 25, 2021). "HEAT Proud Of Their Connection To Nigeria". Heat.com. Retrieved July 11, 2021.
- ^ "Stockton product Gabe Vincent participates in Kings pre-draft workout". KXTV. May 21, 2018. Retrieved August 27, 2019.
- ^ Klan, Mike (October 3, 2018). "Former Gaucho Gabe Vincent signs contract with Sacramento Kings". KEYT-TV. Archived from the original on March 8, 2019. Retrieved August 27, 2019.
- ^ Ham, James (October 13, 2018). "Breaking down Kings' roster ahead of NBA's mandatory cut down day". NBC Sports. Retrieved August 27, 2019.
- ^ Schmidt, Dakota (August 25, 2019). "Look at Five Players With G League Experience To Keep An Eye On During The FIBA World Cup". SB Nation. Retrieved August 27, 2019.
- ^ "Local Roundup: Gabe Vincent scores 35 points again for G-Kings". The Record. December 21, 2019. Archived from the original on December 23, 2019. Retrieved January 7, 2020.
- ^ a b "GABE VINCENT GETS TWO-WAY OPPORTUNITY WITH HEAT". NBA.com. January 8, 2020. Retrieved January 8, 2020.
- ^ Taheri, Hannah (January 29, 2020). "Stockton Native, Kings Alum Gabe Vincent Earns First NBA Action". NBA.com. Archived from the original on January 12, 2021. Retrieved June 13, 2020.
- ^ "Heat's Gabe Vincent: Superb offensive outing". CBS Sports. February 4, 2020. Retrieved June 13, 2020.
- ^ Beguiristain, Joe (June 22, 2020). "Sioux Falls Skyforce's Gabe Vincent Named 2019–20 NBA G League Most Improved Player". nba.com. Retrieved April 10, 2023.
- ^ "2021 Miami HEAT Summer League Roster". NBA.com. August 1, 2021. Retrieved September 11, 2021.
- ^ Herrera, Irene (August 6, 2021). "HEAT RE-SIGNS GABE VINCENT". NBA.com. Retrieved April 10, 2023.
- ^ "Heat roll past Celtics 128–102, take 3–0 lead in Eastern Conference finals". ESPN.com. May 21, 2023. Retrieved June 13, 2023.
- ^ "The Miami Heat roar back in Game 2 to tie the Denver Nuggets in NBA Finals". ESPN.com. Associated Press. June 4, 2023. Retrieved June 13, 2023.
- ^ "Los Angeles Lakers Sign Gabe Vincent". NBA.com. July 6, 2023. Retrieved October 17, 2024.
- ^ "Gabe Vincent 2023–24 Stats per Game". espn.com. Retrieved February 11, 2026.
- ^ "Gabe Vincent 2024–25 Stats per Game". espn.com. Retrieved February 11, 2026.
- ^ "Gabe Vincent 2025–26 Stats per Game". espn.com. Retrieved February 11, 2026.
- ^ "Atlanta Hawks Acquire Guard Gabe Vincent and Second-Round Draft Pick from Los Angeles Lakers". hawks.com. February 5, 2026. Retrieved February 25, 2026.
- ^ "Nigeria defeats Poland in "Peak International Tournament"". eurohoops.net. August 24, 2019. Retrieved August 27, 2019.
- ^ "Nwora Releases D'tigers Final Roster For FIBA World Cup". Channels TV. August 27, 2019. Retrieved August 27, 2019.
External links
[edit]- Career statistics from NBA.com · Basketball Reference
- NBA G League profile
- UC Santa Barbara Gauchos bio Archived August 27, 2019, at the Wayback Machine
Gabe Vincent
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Family and heritage
Gabe Vincent was born on June 14, 1996, in Modesto, California, to Franklyn and Cynthia Vincent. His father, Franklyn, is a Nigerian immigrant who moved to the United States in 1980 and is a professor in the Communication department at California State University, Stanislaus, with a doctorate in psychology. His mother, Cynthia, is American from Connecticut and holds a doctorate in psychology, working as a psychologist. The couple met as co-workers in California during the 1980s and later married, instilling a blend of Nigerian and American cultural influences in their household.[6][7] As the youngest of three sons, Vincent grew up in a family that emphasized discipline, education, and cultural pride rooted in his father's Nigerian heritage. When Vincent was three years old, the family took a trip to Franklyn's hometown of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, to connect with their roots. Franklyn has often spoken about the importance of representing Nigeria through his son's basketball achievements, drawing inspiration from the immigrant experience and the values of perseverance. Cynthia provided a supportive environment that balanced academic rigor with athletic pursuits.[6] Vincent's dual heritage has shaped his identity as a Nigerian-American, influencing his participation in international basketball and his appreciation for both cultures. His father's stories of Nigerian traditions and challenges as an immigrant fostered a strong sense of resilience in Vincent, which he credits for his professional drive. The family maintains close ties to Nigeria, with Franklyn actively following and promoting his son's career as a point of pride for the Nigerian diaspora.[6]Childhood and introduction to basketball
Gabriel Nnamdi Vincent was born on June 14, 1996, in Modesto, California, to Franklyn and Cynthia Vincent, the youngest of their three sons.[6] His father, a professor in the Communication department at California State University, Stanislaus, with a background in psychology, had immigrated from Nigeria in 1980, while his mother is American; the family maintained strong ties to Nigerian heritage, including a trip Vincent took to Port Harcourt at age three to connect with his roots.[6] Growing up in Modesto, Vincent's early years were shaped by his parents' emphasis on self-confidence, respect, and resilience, values instilled through family discussions and cultural traditions.[6] Initially drawn to soccer, Vincent played the sport as a center midfielder until age 11, honing skills in pace control, possession, and defense that later influenced his basketball footwork and shot accuracy.[8] He transitioned to basketball around third grade, approximately age eight, joining the Modesto Slam-N-Jam youth organization, a prominent local program, where he played until the end of middle school under coach Bobby Cole.[9] This marked his formal introduction to the sport, as he developed a passion for it during school activities in Modesto, often competing alongside his older brother Ben in local leagues.[6] Vincent's family provided unwavering support for his budding interest, attending games and accommodating his schedule, as his father later reflected: "We gave him all support he needed. Whatever he needed to do, wherever he needed to be, we were there for him."[6] His parents, both with backgrounds in psychology, also taught him to remain levelheaded amid challenges, a mindset that proved foundational as he progressed in basketball.Amateur career
High school
Vincent began his high school basketball career at Modesto Christian High School in Modesto, California, during his freshman year (2010–11), where he played on the varsity team as an underclassman. After that season, he transferred to St. Mary's High School in Stockton, California, approximately 30 miles north, to continue his development closer to his family's connections in the area. At St. Mary's, a perennial powerhouse in Northern California basketball, Vincent emerged as a key contributor over his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons (2011–14). As a sophomore in the 2011–12 season, Vincent averaged 13.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.[10] His junior year saw continued growth, averaging 21.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game while earning All-Tri-City Athletic League honors for his contributions to the team's competitive play.[10] By his senior season in 2013–14, Vincent had become the team's leading scorer and playmaker, posting averages of 22.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.1 steals per game while leading the Rams in all four categories over 29 games; he also sank 84 three-pointers that year, ranking 150th nationally in that statistic.[10][11] Under his leadership, St. Mary's achieved a 27–2 overall record (10–0 league) and captured the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Division II championship.[12] Vincent was named First Team All-Tri-City Athletic League and First Team All-Sac-Joaquin Section in his senior year, along with All-Area Player of the Year by the Stockton Record, recognizing his impact as a versatile guard.[10] Over his three seasons at St. Mary's, he amassed 1,638 career points and 189 three-pointers, averaging 19.0 points per game and solidifying his reputation as one of the top players in the region and earning recruitment attention from college programs, including a commitment to the University of California, Santa Barbara.[10] His high school tenure highlighted a blend of scoring efficiency, perimeter shooting, and defensive tenacity that would define his later career.[13]College
Vincent committed to the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) in 2014, where he played for the Gauchos in the Big West Conference from 2014 to 2018.[4] As a true freshman in the 2014–15 season, he became the first UCSB freshman to start in a season opener since 2008, averaging 10.1 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game while shooting 42.4% from the field.[14] His 57 three-pointers that year marked the second-highest total by a UCSB freshman in program history, earning him Big West Conference Freshman of the Year honors.[10] In his sophomore campaign of 2015–16, Vincent elevated his production to 14.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, sinking a team-high 80 three-pointers and receiving honorable mention All-Big West recognition.[10] He notched a career-high 27 points, including seven three-pointers, in a win over Cal Poly, contributing to UCSB's advancement to the semifinals of the Vegas 16 postseason tournament.[10] His junior year in 2016–17 saw him average 14.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists across 20 games before an injury prematurely ended his season.[4] As a senior in 2017–18, Vincent averaged 12.4 points and a career-best 3.3 assists per game, shooting 45.0% from the field and leading the Gauchos with his playmaking.[10][4] He scored a senior-year high of 28 points against Long Beach State, finishing his career with 1,441 points, 243 three-pointers, and 114 steals—holding the program's all-time three-point made record.[10][4] For his efforts, he was named to the Second Team All-Big West.[10] Over four seasons, Vincent appeared in 113 games, starting consistently and establishing himself as a key perimeter threat for UCSB.[4]Professional career
G League and NBA entry (2018–2020)
Following the 2018 NBA draft, where he went undrafted out of the University of California, Santa Barbara, Vincent signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Sacramento Kings on October 2, 2018, but was waived shortly thereafter.[15] He then joined the Kings' NBA G League affiliate, the Stockton Kings, to begin his professional career.[16] In his rookie G League season of 2018–19, Vincent appeared in 25 games for Stockton, averaging 8.4 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game while shooting 29.1 percent from three-point range.[17] Entering the 2019–20 season, he showed significant improvement, starting with Stockton where he played 20 games and averaged 23.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, including a league-leading 4.2 three-pointers made per game on 10.3 attempts.[17] His breakout performance included a career-high 35 points on December 18, 2019, in a win over the South Bay Lakers.[18] Vincent also appeared in 11 games for the Sioux Falls Skyforce during the season, averaging 16.4 points, though his primary impact came with Stockton.[17] On January 8, 2020, amid his strong G League campaign, Vincent signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat, allowing him to split time between the NBA and their G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce.[19] For his efforts in the 2019–20 G League season, where he posted overall averages of 20.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists across 31 games, Vincent was named the NBA G League Most Improved Player on June 22, 2020.[16][17] This accolade highlighted his development as a sharpshooting guard capable of contributing at the professional level.Miami Heat (2020–2023)
Gabe Vincent joined the Miami Heat as an undrafted free agent out of UC Santa Barbara, signing a two-way contract on January 8, 2020, which allowed him to split time between the NBA and G League. He made his NBA debut during the 2020 NBA Bubble, appearing in nine games off the bench during the 2019-20 season, averaging 9.2 minutes and 2.4 points per game while shooting 21.6% from the field. His limited role reflected the Heat's established backcourt, but Vincent showed promise in defensive intensity and perimeter shooting in brief appearances.[2] In the 2020-21 season, Vincent earned a standard NBA contract after appearing in 50 regular-season games, averaging 4.8 points, 1.3 assists, and 1.1 rebounds in 13.1 minutes per game, with improved efficiency at 37.8% from the field and 30.9% from three-point range. He contributed modestly in the playoffs, playing four games against the Milwaukee Bucks and averaging 1.3 points. The Heat re-signed him to a two-year, $3.1 million deal in August 2021, securing his spot in the rotation as a reliable backup guard known for his hustle and playmaking.[20][2][21] Vincent's development accelerated in the 2021-22 season, where he played 68 games (starting 27) and averaged career highs of 8.7 points, 3.1 assists, and 1.9 rebounds in 23.4 minutes, shooting 41.7% from the field and 36.8% from three. In the playoffs, he appeared in 18 games during the Heat's Eastern Conference Finals run, averaging 8.0 points and 2.2 assists in 24.0 minutes. His steady defense and spot-up shooting helped stabilize the second unit amid injuries.[2] The 2022-23 season marked Vincent's emergence as a starter, beginning in February after injuries to key guards; he started 34 of 68 games, averaging 9.4 points, 2.5 assists, and 2.1 rebounds in 25.9 minutes, with a 33.4% three-point percentage on 4.5 attempts per game. Vincent also contributed to the Heat's victory in the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament in December 2023. In the playoffs, Vincent played a pivotal role in the Heat's improbable run as the No. 8 seed to the NBA Finals, appearing in all 22 games and averaging 12.7 points, 3.5 assists, and 1.4 rebounds in 25.5 minutes, shooting 41.8% from three. Notable performances included a playoff career-high 29 points (7-of-9 from three) in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics on May 21, 2023, helping secure a 128-102 blowout win and a 3-0 series lead, and a team-high 23 points (8-of-12 shooting) in Game 2 of the NBA Finals against the Denver Nuggets on June 4, 2023, fueling a 111-108 comeback victory to tie the series at 1-1.[2][22][23] As an unrestricted free agent in the 2023 offseason, Vincent departed Miami after four seasons, having appeared in 195 regular-season games with averages of 7.7 points, 2.3 assists, and 1.7 rebounds in 21.0 minutes, contributing to two Eastern Conference Finals appearances and one NBA Finals trip.[2]Los Angeles Lakers (2023–present)
On July 6, 2023, Vincent signed a three-year, $33 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers as an unrestricted free agent following his playoff performance with the Miami Heat.[24][25] Vincent's debut season with the Lakers in 2023–24 was severely hampered by a left knee injury that required microfracture surgery in December 2023, limiting him to just 11 regular-season games. In those appearances, he averaged 3.1 points, 1.9 assists, and 0.8 rebounds in 19.8 minutes per game, while shooting 30.6% from the field and 10.7% from three-point range.[2] The Lakers finished the season with a 47–35 record but lost in the play-in tournament to the Sacramento Kings, and Vincent did not feature in postseason play due to his recovery. Returning healthy for the 2024–25 season, Vincent appeared in 72 regular-season games, providing steady bench production as a reserve guard. He averaged 6.4 points, 1.4 assists, and 1.3 rebounds in 21.2 minutes per game, improving his efficiency to 40.0% field goal shooting and 35.3% from beyond the arc.[2] In the playoffs, the Lakers advanced to the first round, where they were eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in five games; Vincent played in all five contests, averaging 2.8 points in 19.8 minutes while contributing defensively with 0.6 steals per game.[26][5] The 2025–26 season began promisingly for Vincent, who started in the Lakers' backcourt alongside Austin Reaves amid injuries to other guards. In his first three games, he averaged 3.7 points, 2.3 assists, and 1.0 rebound in 24.0 minutes, though his shooting dipped to 23.1% from the field.[2] However, on October 27, 2025, Vincent suffered a left ankle sprain during a loss to the Sacramento Kings, sidelining him for an expected two to four weeks. As of November 17, 2025, Vincent had returned to practice and was listed as questionable for the November 18 game against the Utah Jazz, with the Lakers at 4–3 early in the season.[27][28] On January 6, 2026, Vincent was ruled out for the Lakers' game against the New Orleans Pelicans due to a lumbar back strain. Lakers coach JJ Redick stated that there was no setback in his recovery and expected Vincent to be available for the subsequent game against the San Antonio Spurs.[29][30]International career
2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup
Gabe Vincent, a Nigerian-American guard with roots tracing back to his father's heritage from Nigeria, earned a spot on the national team roster for the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup in China.[31] As a recent college standout from the University of California, Santa Barbara, Vincent impressed during training camp and exhibition games, including a 23-point performance with a game-winning three-pointer in an overtime victory over Poland at the Peak Invitational Tournament, securing his place on the 12-man D'Tigers squad under head coach Alex Nwora.[31] Listed as Nnamdi Vincent on the official roster, he brought scoring versatility and perimeter defense to a team featuring NBA talents like Al-Farouq Aminu and Josh Okogie.[32] Nigeria entered the tournament in Group B alongside Argentina, Russia, and South Korea, aiming to build on their growing international presence. The D'Tigers posted a 3-2 overall record, advancing from the group stage with wins over South Korea and a classification victory against China, but falling to Russia, Argentina, and Poland in the placement rounds, ultimately finishing 17th out of 32 teams.[33] Vincent played a supporting role as a reserve guard, appearing in all five games and contributing to the team's defensive intensity and outside shooting.[34] His efforts helped Nigeria hold opponents to an average of 76.2 points per game while showcasing the squad's potential as Africa's top representative.[35] In the tournament, Vincent averaged 11.4 points, 1.2 rebounds, 0.6 assists, and a team-high 1.6 steals in 18.6 minutes per game, shooting efficiently at 50.0% from the field and 40.0% from three-point range on 6.0 attempts.[34][32] He ranked second on the team in scoring behind Okogie's 12.6 points per game and provided key perimeter defense, exemplified by his steals against Russia in the opener—a 77-82 loss where he contributed offensively in transition.[32] Vincent's three-point volume added spacing to Nigeria's attack, supporting their upset potential in a field dominated by European and American powerhouses.[34]| Statistic | Per Game Average |
|---|---|
| Minutes Played | 18.6 |
| Points | 11.4 |
| Rebounds | 1.2 |
| Assists | 0.6 |
| Steals | 1.6 |
| Field Goal % | 50.0% |
| Three-Point % | 40.0% |
2020 Summer Olympics
Vincent represented Nigeria at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking his second major international appearance after the 2019 FIBA World Cup. Nigeria, coached by Mike Brown, qualified as the top African finisher at the 2019 World Cup and entered the tournament with high expectations following a series of competitive exhibitions. Vincent was included on the 12-man roster alongside fellow NBA players such as Precious Achiuwa and KZ Okpala from the Miami Heat.[36] In the group stage, Nigeria competed in Group B against Australia, Germany, and France but finished winless with a 0-3 record, placing 10th overall. Vincent appeared in all three games, averaging 6 points, 2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game while shooting 25% from the field and 20% from three-point range. His contributions included a season-high 8 points against Germany on July 28, where he added 3 assists in 23 minutes, and 7 points with 5 rebounds versus Australia on July 25. Despite the losses, Nigeria showed defensive resilience, holding opponents to under 85 points in two games, though offensive struggles limited their advancement.[6] A pivotal moment in Nigeria's Olympic buildup came in a pre-tournament exhibition on July 10, 2021, in Las Vegas, where Vincent led the team to a historic 90-87 upset victory over the United States, the first win by an African nation against the U.S. men's team. Playing under his Nigerian name Gabe Nnamdi, he scored a game-high 21 points on 6-of-8 three-point shooting, adding 4 assists and helping Nigeria sink 20 threes as a team. This performance, which drew global attention to Nigeria's rising talent pool, boosted team confidence heading into Tokyo, though they were unable to replicate the shooting efficiency in the Olympics proper.[3]Playing style and impact
Playing style
Gabe Vincent is a versatile point guard known for his defensive tenacity and adaptability in various roles on the court. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing approximately 200 pounds, he plays with a gritty, high-effort style that emphasizes perimeter defense and opportunistic scoring. Vincent is comfortable operating both on and off the ball, allowing him to complement star teammates by handling secondary playmaking duties or spotting up for shots. His evolution from a primary scorer in college to a multifaceted guard in the NBA highlights his willingness to adapt to team needs, as he has noted that wearing "many hats" has prepared him for high-stakes environments.[37] Offensively, Vincent contributes as an efficient three-point shooter and ball handler, particularly in pick-and-roll situations where he can drive for floaters or find rolling bigs. He shot 45.7% from three-point range during the 2023 Eastern Conference Finals, demonstrating his ability to step up in playoff scenarios.[37][38][39][38] However, his playmaking is not elite, averaging limited assists and relying more on smart decision-making than creative passing. While capable in the midrange and paint, his scoring can be streaky, with occasional rushed shots leading to inconsistency, and he lacks the burst to consistently create separation against quicker defenders.[37][38][39][38] Defensively, Vincent excels as a feisty on-ball pest who pressures guards full-court and uses his sturdy frame effectively against larger opponents. He is a smart, alert team defender with strong perimeter positioning, rated highly for his footwork and quickness in containing ball-handlers. As a solid rebounder for a guard, he contributes on the glass despite his size. His limitations appear in interior defense, where his lack of length and athleticism hinders rim protection, and he can be backed down by bigger wings. Overall, Vincent's level-headed approach and daily work ethic make him a reliable rotation player in winning systems.[38][40][37][39][40][37]College accolades
During his time at the University of California, Santa Barbara, Gabe Vincent earned several honors in the Big West Conference. As a freshman in the 2014–15 season, he was named Big West Freshman of the Year after averaging 10.1 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game.[41] In his sophomore year (2015–16), Vincent received All-Big West Honorable Mention recognition for his contributions of 14.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.[10] As a senior in 2017–18, he was selected to the All-Big West Second Team, averaging 12.4 points and 3.3 assists per game while helping the team reach the NCAA Tournament.[42]G League accolades
Vincent's performance in the NBA G League earned him the league's Most Improved Player award for the 2019–20 season while playing for the Sioux Falls Skyforce, the Miami Heat's affiliate. He averaged 20.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game across 31 appearances, showcasing significant growth from his rookie year.[43]NBA accolades
In the NBA, Vincent was a member of the Los Angeles Lakers team that won the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament (NBA Cup) in 2023, defeating the Indiana Pacers in the final.[44]Career statistics
NBA regular season
| Season | Age | Team | League | GP | GS | MPG | FG | FGA | FG% | 3P | 3PA | 3P% | 2P | 2PA | 2P% | eFG% | FT | FTA | FT% | ORB | DRB | TRB | AST | STL | BLK | TOV | PF | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019–20 | 23 | MIA | NBA | 9 | 0 | 9.2 | 0.9 | 4.1 | .216 | 0.7 | 3.0 | .222 | 0.2 | 1.1 | .200 | .297 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.6 | 0.6 | 0.7 | 0.6 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.7 | 2.4 | |
| 2020–21 | 24 | MIA | NBA | 50 | 7 | 13.1 | 1.8 | 4.7 | .378 | 0.9 | 3.0 | .309 | 0.8 | 1.7 | .500 | .476 | 0.4 | 0.5 | .870 | 0.2 | 0.9 | 1.1 | 1.3 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 0.7 | 1.6 | 4.8 |
| 2021–22 | 25 | MIA | NBA | 68 | 27 | 23.4 | 3.1 | 7.5 | .417 | 1.8 | 4.8 | .368 | 1.4 | 2.8 | .500 | .533 | 0.6 | 0.8 | .815 | 0.3 | 1.5 | 1.9 | 3.1 | 0.9 | 0.2 | 1.4 | 2.3 | 8.7 |
| 2022–23 | 26 | MIA | NBA | 68 | 34 | 25.9 | 3.4 | 8.3 | .402 | 1.7 | 5.1 | .334 | 1.6 | 3.2 | .512 | .505 | 1.0 | 1.1 | .872 | 0.4 | 1.7 | 2.1 | 2.5 | 0.9 | 0.1 | 1.4 | 2.3 | 9.4 |
| 2023–24 | 27 | LAL | NBA | 11 | 0 | 19.8 | 1.4 | 4.5 | .306 | 0.3 | 2.5 | .107 | 1.1 | 1.9 | .571 | .337 | 0.1 | 0.2 | .500 | 0.4 | 0.5 | 0.8 | 1.9 | 0.8 | 0.0 | 0.5 | 1.7 | 3.1 |
| 2024–25 | 28 | LAL | NBA | 72 | 11 | 21.2 | 2.3 | 5.8 | .400 | 1.5 | 4.3 | .353 | 0.8 | 1.5 | .532 | .530 | 0.2 | 0.3 | .714 | 0.3 | 1.0 | 1.3 | 1.4 | 0.7 | 0.2 | 0.6 | 2.1 | 6.4 |
| 2025–26 | 29 | LAL | NBA | 3 | 3 | 24.0 | 1.0 | 4.3 | .231 | 0.7 | 3.3 | .200 | 0.3 | 1.0 | .333 | .308 | 1.0 | 1.0 | 1.000 | 0.3 | 0.7 | 1.0 | 2.3 | 1.0 | 0.0 | 0.7 | 2.3 | 3.7 |
| Career | NBA | 281 | 82 | 21.3 | 2.4 | 6.5 | .388 | 1.3 | 4.2 | .332 | 1.1 | 2.3 | .487 | .470 | 0.5 | 0.7 | .839 | 0.3 | 1.3 | 1.6 | 2.2 | 0.7 | 0.1 | 1.0 | 2.0 | 7.2 |
NBA playoffs
Vincent made his NBA playoff debut during the 2020 playoffs in the Orlando bubble, appearing in one game for the Miami Heat in their first-round series against the Milwaukee Bucks, where he recorded two points in three minutes off the bench.[5] In the 2021 playoffs, he played in three games during the Heat's first-round loss to the Bucks, averaging 1.7 points and contributing limited minutes as a rookie reserve.[45] His role expanded in the 2022 playoffs, where the Heat advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals; Vincent appeared in 18 games across three series, averaging 8.0 points, 3.2 assists, and 23.5 minutes per game, including solid contributions in the first-round win over the Atlanta Hawks and the conference semifinals victory against the Philadelphia 76ers. Vincent's most prominent playoff performances came in 2023 with the Heat, who reached the NBA Finals as the eighth seed via the play-in tournament. In the first round against the Bucks, he averaged 10.6 points and 3.6 assists over five games, helping Miami sweep the series despite missing star Jimmy Butler for parts of it. In the conference semifinals against the New York Knicks, Vincent contributed 9.5 points and 3.0 assists across six games, including a crucial 19-point outing in Game 2 to secure a road win. His standout moment occurred in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Boston Celtics, where he averaged 15.8 points on 50% shooting in six games; in Game 3, Vincent erupted for a playoff career-high 29 points on 10-of-13 shooting, including 7-of-9 from three-point range, leading the Heat to a 128–102 blowout victory and a 3–0 series lead. In the Finals against the Denver Nuggets, Vincent played all five games, averaging 6.8 points in 22.3 minutes, though the Heat fell in five games.[5] After signing with the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2023 offseason, Vincent's 2024 playoff experience was limited by a left oblique strain that sidelined him for much of the postseason. He appeared in all five games of the Lakers' first-round Western Conference loss to the Nuggets, averaging 1.4 points and 0.6 assists in 13.8 minutes off the bench, providing steady defense and ball-handling in a reserve role. In the 2025 playoffs, Vincent appeared in five games during the Lakers' first-round exit, averaging 2.8 points, 1.0 assist, and 1.0 rebound in 19.8 minutes per game. As of November 2025, Vincent has appeared in 54 games across six postseason runs, primarily as a reliable perimeter defender and spot-up shooter for contending teams. His career playoff averages stand at 8.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game in 23.5 minutes, with a 34.1% three-point shooting rate that has proven effective in high-stakes moments.[46]| Season | Team | Series | GP | MPG | PPG | APG | RPG | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | MIA | EC1 | 1 | 3.0 | 2.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | .500 | .000 |
| 2021 | MIA | EC1 | 3 | 5.7 | 1.7 | 0.3 | 0.3 | .250 | .000 |
| 2022 | MIA | EC1/ECS/ECF | 18 | 23.5 | 8.0 | 3.2 | 1.9 | .382 | .309 |
| 2023 | MIA | EC1/ECS/ECF/FIN | 22 | 30.5 | 12.7 | 3.5 | 1.4 | .402 | .378 |
| 2024 | LAL | WC1 | 5 | 13.8 | 1.4 | 0.6 | 1.6 | .250 | .143 |
| 2025 | LAL | WC1 | 5 | 19.8 | 2.8 | 1.0 | 1.0 | .400 | .400 |
| Career | - | - | 54 | 23.5 | 8.3 | 2.7 | 1.5 | .395 | .341 |
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