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Ogugua "OG" Anunoby Jr. (born 17 July 1997) is a British professional basketball player for the New York Knicks of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Indiana Hoosiers. He won an NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019 and led the league in steals while being named to his first NBA All-Defensive Team in 2023.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Ogugua Anunoby was born in London, England, on 17 July 1997, to Nigerian parents of Igbo descent.[1][2] His father, Ogugua Sr. (1952–2018),[3] taught as a professor in England at the time.[1][4] His mother, Grace Ndidi Okereke,[3] was a track and field athlete who competed at a national level for Nigeria and died of cancer when Anunoby was one year old.[5] At the age of four, Anunoby moved with his family to the U.S. and settled in Jefferson City, Missouri,[2] where his father was a professor of finance at Lincoln University.[5] His older brother, Chigbo, played in the NFL for the Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans, and Minnesota Vikings before expressing interest in entering medical school (he ultimately did not attend).[6] Anunoby played football when he was young, but stopped around the age of eight to focus more on basketball because of his height.[4]

Anunoby played for Jefferson City High School.[7] During his senior season, he averaged 19.1 points and 8.6 rebounds per game and was named a finalist for Mr Basketball in the state of Missouri.[8] In October 2014, Anunoby chose to attend Indiana University[9] over Georgia, Iowa, George Mason, and Ole Miss.

College recruiting information
Name Hometown School Height Weight Commit date
OG Anunoby
F 		Jefferson City, MO Jefferson City HS 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) 235 lb (107 kg) Oct 14, 2014 
Recruit ratings: Scout: 3/5 stars   Rivals: 3/5 stars   247Sports: 3/5 stars   ESPN: 3/5 stars   
Overall recruit ranking:
  • Note: In many cases, Scout, Rivals, 247Sports, On3, and ESPN may conflict in their listings of height and weight.
  • In these cases, the average was taken. ESPN grades are on a 100-point scale.

Sources:

  • "Indiana Hoosiers". ESPN.
  • "2015 Team Ranking". Rivals.

College career

[edit]

As a freshman in 2015–16 at Indiana, Anunoby appeared in 34 games, averaging 6.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game.[10][11]

Anunoby was selected as a Pre-season All-American by The Sporting News.[12] On 18 January 2017, Anunoby injured his right knee against Penn State, causing him to undergo season-ending knee surgery.[13] On 10 April 2017, Anunoby declared his intention to enter the 2017 NBA draft and hire an agent, ending his tenure with the Hoosiers.[14]

Professional career

[edit]

Toronto Raptors (2017–2023)

[edit]

On 22 June 2017, he was selected with the 23rd overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft by the Toronto Raptors.[15] On 9 July, he signed his rookie scale contract with the Raptors.[16] On 14 November, Anunoby made his first career start, against the Houston Rockets.[17] He finished the game with 16 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 steal in 30 minutes. By 15 December, he led starter rookies in offensive and defensive rating and had the third highest true shooting percentage and best turnover-to-assist ratio for a non-guard.[18]

On 29 January 2019, Anunoby was named a member of the World Team representing the United Kingdom for the 2019 Rising Stars Challenge.[19] In April 2019, Anunoby had an emergency appendectomy,[20] which caused him to miss most of the Raptors' championship playoff run. He dressed for the NBA Finals but did not play as the Raptors went on to win the title,[21] becoming the first British player to win an NBA championship.

On 1 March 2020, Anunoby scored 32 points and recorded seven steals, along with seven rebounds and three assists in a 133–118 loss against the Denver Nuggets.[22] He hit a game-winning buzzer-beater three-pointer on 3 September, in a 104–103 win in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Boston Celtics, and finished with 12 points. The buzzer-beater prevented the Raptors from going down to a 0–3 deficit to the Celtics.[23] The Raptors would eventually fall in seven games. On 21 December 2020, he signed a four-year, $72 million extension, through the 2024–25 season.[24] On 24 January 2021, Anunoby scored a season-high 30 points while getting eight rebounds, one assist, five steals, and a block in a 107–102 win against the Indiana Pacers,[25] joining former Raptor Kawhi Leonard as the only players with multiple games getting 30 points, five rebounds, and five steals in franchise history.[26] On 1 November, Anunoby scored a career-high 36 points along with 6 rebounds and 2 assists along with the win against the Knicks.[27]

On 25 February 2022, Anunoby was sidelined due to a right finger fracture suffered against the Charlotte Hornets.[28] On 3 March, he was ruled out for two weeks to rest his fractured finger.[29]

On 16 November 2022, Anunoby scored a season-high 32 points during a 112–104 win against the Miami Heat.[30] During the 2022–23 season, Anunoby led the league in steals, becoming the first Raptors player and first British player to accomplish the feat.[31] At the end of the season, Anunoby was named for the first time to the NBA All-Defensive Second team.[32]

New York Knicks (2023–present)

[edit]

On 30 December 2023, Anunoby, along with Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn were traded to the New York Knicks in exchange for RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley and a second-round pick.[33] On 1 January 2024, Anunoby made his Knicks debut, putting up 17 points and six rebounds in a 112–106 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.[34] During his first 10 games as a New York Knick, he set an NBA record with a +170 plus–minus for his first 10 games with a new team.[35] On 8 February 2024, it was announced that Anunoby had surgery on his right elbow to remove a loose bone fragment, sidelining him for a month.[36] Anunoby returned to play against the Philadelphia 76ers on 12 March.[37] On 24 June 2024, Anunoby declined his $19.9M player option with the Knicks, becoming a free agent.[38]

On 6 July 2024, Anunoby re-signed with the Knicks.[39] On 25 November, Anunoby scored a career–high 40 points in a 145–118 win against the Denver Nuggets.[40] Anunoby had a streak where he scored at least 20 points in a career-high ten straight games.[41]

Personal life

[edit]

Anunoby has said, "It's definitely a goal of mine to inspire kids in Great Britain to want to play basketball and show that they can make it to the NBA from Britain."[42]

Anunoby is considered one of the best British players to ever play in the NBA.[43][44]

In 2021, Anunoby retired his high school basketball Jersey at Jefferson City High School.[45]

In 2023, Anunoby became a minority stake owner of the London Lions.[46]

Career statistics

[edit]
Legend
  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
 †  Won an NBA championship  *  Led the league

NBA

[edit]

Regular season

[edit]
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2017–18 Toronto 74 62 20.0 .471 .371 .629 2.5 .7 .7 .2 5.9
2018–19† Toronto 67 6 20.2 .453 .332 .581 2.9 .7 .7 .3 7.0
2019–20 Toronto 69 68 29.9 .505 .390 .706 5.3 1.6 1.4 .7 10.6
2020–21 Toronto 43 43 33.3 .480 .398 .784 5.5 2.2 1.5 .7 15.9
2021–22 Toronto 48 48 36.0 .443 .363 .754 5.5 2.6 1.5 .5 17.1
2022–23 Toronto 67 67 35.6 .476 .387 .838 5.0 2.0 1.9* .7 16.8
2023–24 Toronto 27 27 33.3 .489 .374 .717 3.9 2.7 1.0 .5 15.1
New York 23 23 34.9 .488 .394 .791 4.4 1.5 1.7 1.0 14.1
2024–25 New York 74 74 36.6 .476 .372 .810 4.8 2.2 1.5 .9 18.0
Career 492 418 30.2 .474 .375 .761 4.4 1.7 1.3 .6 12.9

Playoffs

[edit]
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2018 Toronto 10 10 23.8 .558 .448 .727 2.1 .7 .6 .4 7.9
2020 Toronto 11 11 35.7 .455 .415 .643 6.9 1.2 1.0 1.2 10.5
2022 Toronto 6 6 36.1 .476 .341 .750 4.0 2.5 1.0 .2 17.3
2024 New York 9 9 36.0 .505 .410 .615 6.0 1.1 .9 1.0 15.1
2025 New York 18 18 39.2 .417 .339 .810 4.6 1.3 2.0 1.2 16.3
Career 54 54 34.8 .460 .373 .738 4.8 1.3 1.2 .9 13.5

College

[edit]
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2015–16 Indiana 34 0 13.7 .569 .448 .476 2.6 .5 .8 .8 4.9
2016–17 Indiana 16 10 25.1 .557 .311 .563 5.4 1.4 1.3 1.3 11.1
Career 50 10 17.4 .563 .365 .522 3.5 .8 1.0 .9 6.8

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

OG Anunoby

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
OG Anunoby is a British professional player who serves as a for the of the (NBA). Born on July 17, 1997, in , , he stands at 6 feet 7 inches (2.01 meters) tall and weighs 240 pounds (109 kilograms), known for his athleticism, perimeter defense, and three-point shooting. Drafted 23rd overall by the in the first round of the after two seasons at , Anunoby has established himself as a versatile over his eight-year career as of 2025. Anunoby's professional journey began with the Raptors, where he was a member of their 2019 NBA championship-winning team, though he missed the due to . Over six seasons in (2017–2023), he appeared in 321 games (mostly as a starter), posting career averages of 11.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.3 steals in 27.9 minutes per game, with notable improvements in scoring and efficiency in later years. His defensive prowess peaked in the 2022–23 season, when he led the NBA in steals with 1.9 per game (128 total) and earned his first All-Defensive Second Team selection, highlighting his role as one of the league's top perimeter defenders. In December 2023, Anunoby was traded to the , where he quickly became a cornerstone of their defense and offense, helping the team reach the Eastern Conference semifinals in the 2023–24 playoffs. In his first full season with the Knicks during 2024–25, he averaged 18.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game while shooting 39.7 percent from three-point range; in July 2024, he signed a five-year, $212.5 million contract extension with the team. As of November 2025, he has started the 2025–26 season strongly, continuing his elite production. Off the court, Anunoby represents internationally, having competed for the national team, and his career trajectory underscores a blend of raw athletic potential honed into consistent elite production.

Early Development

Early Life and Family

Ogugua "OG" Anunoby Jr. was born on July 17, 1997, in , , to Nigerian parents of Igbo descent. His father, Ogugua Anunoby Sr. (born 1952), was a originally from who had relocated to the for graduate studies before the family moved to the . His mother, Grace Ndidi Okereke, was a national-level athlete in who held a but died of cancer when Anunoby was one year old. Anunoby holds British citizenship through his birth in and maintains strong ties to his Nigerian heritage, influenced by his parents' Igbo roots and cultural values. Anunoby grew up in a family of four children, including three siblings: an older brother, Chigbo, who played as a in the NFL for the ; another brother, Olisa; and a sister, Ifeoma. Following his mother's death, Anunoby was primarily raised by his , who emphasized , hard work, and academic excellence, often requiring daily reading and setting high standards for . His passed away in 2018. The family instilled a strong sense of Nigerian identity alongside British influences, with Anunoby later reflecting on the blend of Igbo traditions and English upbringing in shaping his perspective. At the age of four, in 2002, Anunoby relocated with his family to , where his father accepted a professorship in business and finance at Lincoln University. Adjusting to life in the United States involved adapting to a new cultural and educational environment, but Anunoby quickly integrated through local activities. Initially, he participated in soccer and , continuing his interest in football from his early years in until around age 10 or 11. At that point, he shifted focus to , inspired by his father's support, including the installation of a backyard hoop when Anunoby was eight, which allowed for daily practice and sparked his passion for the sport. His father's emphasis on diligence and effort further encouraged this transition, laying the foundation for Anunoby's athletic development.

High School Career

Anunoby attended Jefferson City High School in Jefferson City, Missouri, where he quickly emerged as a standout player known for his length, athleticism, and defensive instincts. During his time there, he developed into a versatile forward, earning recognition as one of the top players in the state. As a two-time Class 5 All-State honoree in Missouri, Anunoby received Missouri Basketball Association Class 5 All-State selection and second-team all-state honors from the Missouri Sportswriters and Broadcasters Association in his senior year. In that 2014-15 season, he averaged 19.1 points and 8.6 rebounds per game while shooting 36 percent from three-point range (40 of 111 attempts), contributing to a 15-12 team record under head coach Blair Thompson. His junior year was even more dominant statistically, with averages of 21.3 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 3.4 blocks per game, though a wrist injury in February 2014 sidelined him for the remainder of that season and limited his AAU participation. Anunoby supplemented his high school play with AAU basketball on Team Thad in the Association circuit, where his performances drew national scout attention and elevated his recruiting profile during the summer before his senior year. Rated a three-star recruit by services like Scout, Rivals, and —with a composite score of 0.8333—he was lauded for his explosive athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and potential as a lockdown perimeter defender. He committed to on October 14, 2014, choosing the Hoosiers over offers from Kansas State, Mississippi, Vanderbilt, Iowa, Georgia, Wichita State, and . In recognition of his contributions to the program, Jefferson City High School retired Anunoby's No. 5 jersey on September 10, 2021, during a halftime ceremony at a football game against Rock Bridge, honoring him as one of the school's greatest athletes.

Entry into Professional Basketball

College Career

Anunoby committed to Indiana University in October 2014, joining a recruiting class that included future professionals such as Juwan Morgan. As a freshman forward for the Indiana Hoosiers during the 2015–16 season, he appeared in 34 games, averaging 4.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game while shooting 56.9% from the field. His defensive versatility and athleticism quickly established him as a valuable rotation player on a team that advanced to the NCAA Tournament's Sweet Sixteen. In his year of 2016–17, Anunoby emerged as a starter, making 10 starts in 16 games before a season-ending injury. He averaged 11.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 1.3 steals per game, with a of 55.7%, showcasing improved scoring efficiency and perimeter defense. Recognized as a preseason All-American by , he was a key component of Indiana's early-season success in the . On January 18, 2017, Anunoby suffered a right injury during a win over Penn State, which required and sidelined him for the remainder of the season. The injury occurred after he had demonstrated significant growth as a two-way contributor, helping anchor ' frontcourt alongside teammates like Thomas Bryant. Following the season, Anunoby declared for the on April 11, 2017, as an early entry candidate, hiring an agent and forgoing his remaining eligibility. His time at highlighted his potential as an elite defender, though limited by the injury, in a program known for developing NBA talent during coach Tom Crean's tenure.

2017 NBA Draft

Anunoby entered the as a projected late first-round pick, valued for his 6-foot-7 frame and exceptional 7-foot-2 wingspan that highlighted his defensive versatility, though his draft stock was tempered by a season-ending ACL injury sustained during his sophomore year at . Pre-draft evaluations praised his potential as a multi-positional defender capable of guarding positions 1 through 5, with scouts noting his athleticism and length as key assets despite limited offensive polish and recovery uncertainties from the knee surgery. He participated in pro day workouts and private sessions with several teams, including the , to demonstrate his post-injury mobility. The took place on June 22 at in , New York, where the Raptors selected Anunoby with the 23rd overall pick in the first round. On stage with his family, Anunoby displayed visible excitement upon hearing his name called, hugging his representatives before addressing the media about his gratitude and readiness to contribute defensively. The selection represented a direct pick for , with no immediate trade of rights involved, aligning with the team's emphasis on acquiring high-upside wings. Following the draft, Anunoby signed a four-year rookie-scale with the Raptors on July 9, 2017, worth approximately $9.75 million total, including a first-year salary of about $2.4 million. He joined the team's and impressed in preseason games, showcasing his defensive instincts while continuing to build offensive confidence post-injury. Anunoby earned a spot on the opening night roster for the 2017-18 season, marking his entry into NBA competition without an initial assignment to the G League affiliate, Raptors 905.

NBA Career

Toronto Raptors (2017–2023)

Anunoby made his NBA debut with the on October 19, 2017, against the , entering as a substitute in the second quarter. During his rookie 2017–18 season, he appeared in 74 regular-season games, primarily off the bench, averaging 5.9 points and 2.5 rebounds per game while shooting 48.0% from the field. His contributions helped the achieve a franchise-record 59 wins and the top seed in the Eastern Conference. In the 2018–19 season, Anunoby emerged as a breakout player, averaging 7.0 in 69 regular-season appearances before a late-season sidelined him. He returned for the , starting all 24 games as a key defensive wing, including assignments on elite scorers like in the . The Raptors defeated the in six games to win the championship, making Anunoby the first British-born player to claim an NBA title. Anunoby's role expanded in subsequent seasons, solidifying his status as a premier 3-and-D perimeter defender. In the playoffs, he started all 11 games for , averaging 10.5 points and 3.4 rebounds while providing versatile defense during the team's Eastern Conference Finals run. Injuries interrupted his progress, including a fractured right finger in March 2022 that required surgery and caused him to miss 15 games in the 2021–22 season. On December 21, 2020, he signed a four-year, $72 million contract extension with the Raptors, securing his future with the team through the 2024–25 season. Anunoby reached his peak defensive form in 2022–23, leading the NBA with 1.9 steals per game across 67 appearances and earning All-Defensive Second Team honors for the first time. He averaged 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.2 three-pointers made per game that year, showcasing improved offensive efficiency as a catch-and-shoot specialist. Over his time with from 2017 to 2023 (including part of 2023-24), Anunoby played in 395 regular-season games, evolving into a cornerstone 3-and-D known for his length, quick hands, and perimeter versatility. On December 30, 2023, the Raptors traded Anunoby, along with and , to the in a multi-team deal that brought , , and a 2024 second-round pick to .

New York Knicks (2023–present)

On December 30, 2023, Anunoby was traded to the from the in exchange for , , and a second-round pick. His arrival provided an immediate defensive boost, as the Knicks compiled a 20-3 record in his first 23 games with the team. Anunoby set an NBA record with a plus-minus of +170 over his first 10 games, highlighting his transformative impact on the team's perimeter defense. During the 2023–24 season, Anunoby averaged 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game across 50 appearances, primarily as the starting alongside . He reached a career-high 40 points on November 25, 2024, in a 145–118 victory over the , shooting 16-of-23 from the field and 5-of-7 from three-point range. Anunoby's contributions helped propel the Knicks to the Eastern Conference semifinals, where they fell to the in seven games; however, he missed four contests in that series due to a left strain sustained in Game 2. On July 6, 2024, Anunoby re-signed with the Knicks on a five-year, $212.5 million contract, securing his long-term role as a cornerstone defender. In the 2024–25 season, he elevated his production to career averages of 18.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists over 74 games, maintaining elite defensive efficiency that anchored the Knicks' top-ranked unit. His versatility in guarding multiple positions was pivotal in the team's advancement to the Eastern Conference Finals; they defeated the 4-2 in the Eastern Conference Semifinals before losing to the 2-4 in the Eastern Conference Finals. As of November 15, 2025, Anunoby has started the 2025–26 season averaging 17.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.2 steals per game through 12 games, positioning him as a contender for All-Defensive honors. His seamless integration into the Knicks' lineup has bolstered their championship aspirations, with his two-way play complementing Brunson's scoring and contributing to an 8-4 start.

Playing Style and Role

Defensive Prowess

OG Anunoby's defensive prowess stems from his exceptional physical attributes, including a height of 6 feet 7 inches (2.01 m), a weight of 240 pounds (109 kg), and a measuring 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 m), which enable him to effectively guard positions 1 through 5 across the NBA. These measurements contribute to his positional versatility, allowing him to disrupt plays at multiple levels on the court. Anunoby's defensive style is characterized by relentless on-ball pressure and quick hands that generate steals, evidenced by his career average of 1.3 steals per game, including a league-leading 1.9 steals per game in the 2022-23 season where he recorded 128 total steals. Off the ball, he excels in help defense and rim protection, averaging 0.6 blocks per game over his career, often rotating to contest shots and alter opponents' decisions. His tenacity has been particularly notable in high-stakes assignments, such as limiting to inefficient scoring in key matchups, showcasing his ability to contain elite perimeter and interior threats. In recognition of his impact, Anunoby earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2022-23. Advanced metrics further underscore his effectiveness, with a career defensive rating of 111.3, reflecting his role in suppressing opponents' scoring . Anunoby's versatility shines in switching schemes, where he seamlessly adapts to both man-to-man and zone defenses, evolving from a raw rookie into a lockdown wing capable of anchoring team defenses. With the , his presence has elevated the team's defensive rating by approximately 5 points per 100 possessions when on the floor compared to off, as seen in post-trade improvements that propelled the Knicks to a top-2 defensive unit. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 1.5 steals and 0.9 blocks per game, maintaining his elite defensive profile.

Offensive Contributions

Anunoby has developed into a reliable catch-and-shoot specialist, connecting on 37.4% of his career three-point attempts across 3.5 attempts per game. His shooting efficiency in the 2024–25 season was 37.2% from beyond the arc, contributing to his role as a key perimeter threat in structured offenses. In his off-ball role, Anunoby excels as an elite cutter, generating 1.2 points per possession on cut plays, often capitalizing on dunker spot opportunities for high-percentage finishes. He also thrives in transition, scoring at a rate of 1.1 points per possession, leveraging his athleticism to convert fast-break chances efficiently. Anunoby's finishing stands out close to the , where he converts 64.5% of his shots at the rim, while his mid-range pull-ups in isolation maintain a solid 42% efficiency despite limited ball-handling duties. He remains particularly effective in spot-up situations, where his movement and quick release allow him to exploit defensive rotations without primary creation responsibilities. Over his career, Anunoby's scoring has evolved from a modest 5.4 as a to averaging over 15 with the Knicks, bolstered by a playoff average of 13.5 . This growth aligns well with motion-heavy systems like the Knicks', where his off-ball contributions enhance team spacing and flow. He has addressed key weaknesses, including free-throw shooting, which reached 81.0% in the 2024–25 season, though he occasionally shows hesitation in half-court creation scenarios.

International Involvement

Great Britain Representation

OG Anunoby, born in London, England, on July 17, 1997, holds British citizenship by birth, rendering him eligible to represent the Great Britain national basketball team. Despite this eligibility, Anunoby has not made a senior debut for the team, though he has expressed ongoing interest in doing so to inspire young players in the UK. In a 2017 interview, he stated that playing for Great Britain was something he considered, emphasizing his desire to demonstrate that British talent could reach the NBA. Anunoby's considerations for national team involvement have been shaped by scheduling conflicts with his NBA commitments. In July 2025, he confirmed he would not participate in , citing the demands of the ' schedule, but indicated openness to future competitions, including potential involvement in the 2028 Olympics. This stance was reiterated in an August 2025 interview, where he responded non-committally to queries about suiting up for , saying "maybe another time," while affirming his role as an ambassador for British basketball. His motivations for representing Great Britain stem from a commitment to promoting the sport in the UK and leveraging his London roots. Anunoby has highlighted his goal of motivating UK youth to pursue basketball, viewing his NBA success as a pathway to elevate the game's visibility domestically. Family connections in London further tie him to the region, fostering a sense of national pride despite relocating to the United States at age four. In 2025 interviews, he reiterated aspirations to contribute to the national team's growth, positioning himself as a figure who represents the UK on the global stage regardless of formal participation. Several barriers have delayed Anunoby's potential debut, including persistent NBA playoff obligations that overlap with international windows and his prioritization of club performance. Additionally, Great Britain's program has been in a rebuilding phase following the 2021 Olympics, marked by organizational challenges and limited success in qualifiers, which may influence his timing. These factors, combined with the team's internal restructuring, have kept Anunoby focused on his professional career while leaving the door open for future national team opportunities.

Other International Appearances

Anunoby's international basketball experiences beyond representing have been limited, primarily due to his NBA commitments. In February 2019, he was selected to the World Team for the , where he represented his roots alongside other international players. During the exhibition game in , Anunoby played 18 minutes off the bench, scoring 12 points on 6-of-8 shooting while adding 2 rebounds. This appearance served as a nod to his birthplace before relocating to the at age four with his family. Anunoby has not yet participated in major FIBA tournaments such as the or Olympics, despite receiving preliminary invitations to represent —his parents' country of origin—in the 2020 Tokyo Games; he ultimately did not join the training camp or roster. His focus has remained on NBA duties, with no recorded involvement in exhibitions or other overseas regular-season matchups. In 2023, Anunoby deepened his ties to the UK basketball scene by acquiring a minority ownership stake in the London Lions of the British Basketball League, expressing a desire to support and inspire young players in his hometown. This investment underscores his ongoing connection to international basketball development outside of competitive play.

Off-Court Life

Personal Background

Anunoby maintains a close relationship with his family, including his brother Chigbo, a former NFL linebacker. Born to Nigerian parents of Igbo descent, his father, Ogugua Anunoby Sr., was a finance professor who passed away in 2018, while his mother, a national-level track and field athlete, died of cancer when Anunoby was one year old. As of 2025, Anunoby has not publicly shared details about a spouse or children. Anunoby is recognized for his reserved and introverted personality, often described as a "man of mystery" who shuns the spotlight and prefers to let his on-court performance speak for itself. He has shown an interest in , notably engaging in lighthearted discussions about style and accessories like scarves during appearances with former teammate . Additionally, Anunoby enjoys music, including hip-hop and genres. Despite his NBA career in , Anunoby sustains strong ties to the , frequently visiting —his birthplace—and participating in local events. Following multiple injuries throughout his career, including strains and issues requiring , he emphasizes rigorous recovery routines, such as extended daily rehab sessions to maintain peak physical condition. In his philanthropic efforts, Anunoby supports youth development by hosting youth basketball camps, including annual events in and his first in —his hometown—in June 2025, aiming to motivate young players through skill-building and motivational talks.

Business Ventures and Philanthropy

In 2023, Anunoby became a minority owner of the London Lions, a team in the , joining majority owners in an effort to promote the growth of professional in the . He has actively supported the franchise by attending events, such as the 2023 Rooftop Rumble basketball tournament in , and has expressed commitment to elevating the sport's profile in his birthplace. As of 2025, Anunoby's business interests remain focused on basketball-related endeavors, with no major investments outside the sport documented. Anunoby has secured several endorsement deals that align with his athletic profile. In 2022, he signed a partnership with , joining other elite athletes in promoting the brand's hydration products. More recently, in July 2025, he entered a multi-year footwear and apparel agreement with , under which he wears their SKX and SKX Reign models on the court. Anunoby's philanthropic efforts center on providing youth access to basketball in underserved communities, drawing from his own journey from to professional success. He hosts annual youth camps, including his third event in at the SportsDock in August 2025, where he engaged local participants and emphasized skill development and cultural connections to the sport. Similarly, in June 2025, he organized a camp at Jefferson City High School in , his , targeting local middle and high school students to inspire future athletes. These initiatives build on earlier community ties, such as the 2021 retirement of his No. 5 jersey at Jefferson City High School, which honored his contributions and reinforced his role as a local role model. Anunoby has also participated in broader charitable causes, including raising funds at Cantor Fitzgerald's annual 9/11 Charity Day in September 2025 to support families affected by the attacks. Through these activities, he leverages his NBA platform to advocate for and diversity in , stating in interviews that his experiences motivate him to create opportunities for underrepresented players.

Career Statistics

NBA Regular Season

OG Anunoby has played in the NBA regular season since his rookie year in 2017–18, accumulating totals through the ongoing 2025–26 season of 504 games, with per-game averages of 13.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.6 blocks, and 37.8% from three-point range.
SeasonGPFG%3P%FT%REBASTSTLBLKPTS
2017-187420.0.471.371.6292.50.70.70.25.9
2018-196720.2.453.332.5812.90.70.70.37.0
2019-206929.9.505.390.7065.31.61.40.710.6
2020-214333.3.480.398.7845.52.21.50.715.9
2021-224836.0.443.363.7545.52.61.50.517.1
2022-236735.6.476.387.8385.02.01.90.716.8
2023-245034.0.489.382.7534.22.11.40.714.7
2024-257436.6.476.372.8104.82.21.50.918.0
2025-261231.1.476.392.7605.62.21.90.715.8
Career50430.8.476.378.7594.71.81.40.613.7
In the 2022–23 season, Anunoby appeared in 67 games, averaging 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and a league-leading 1.9 steals per game. During the 2024–25 season, he played all 74 games for the , posting 18.0 with improved shooting efficiency at 47.6% from the field and 81.0% from the free-throw line. As of November 2025, in the partial 2025–26 season, Anunoby has logged 12 games, averaging 15.8 points and 1.9 steals while shooting 39.2% from three. On November 14, 2025, he suffered a left strain against the . Anunoby's role evolved from a bench contributor in his first two seasons, where he averaged under 8.0 points in limited minutes, to a full-time starter by his third year, contributing to higher usage and defensive impact. Over his career, he has generated 31.2 , reflecting his value in team success through versatile defense and growing offensive output.

NBA Playoffs

Anunoby has appeared in 54 NBA playoff games across five postseason runs from 2018 to 2025, averaging 13.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.8 blocks, and 37.9% from three-point range per game. His playoff efficiency often contrasts with higher volume in the regular season, emphasizing defensive intensity and selective scoring in high-stakes environments. In the , Anunoby contributed to the ' championship as a key regular-season defender but missed the entire postseason due to , earning a ring without on-court playoff stats that year. During the 2024 Eastern Semifinals against the , he averaged 15.1 points across nine playoff games before a left strain sidelined him after Game 2. In the 2025 , Anunoby played all 18 games for the Knicks, averaging 16.3 points and 2.0 steals while helping advance past the first two rounds before an Eastern Finals loss.
YearTeamOpponentsGPMPGFG%3P%REBASTSTLBLKPTS
2017-18TORWAS (1st Rd), CLE (Conf. Semis)1023.8.558.4482.10.70.60.47.9
2019-20TORBKN (1st Rd), (Conf. Semis)1135.7.455.4156.91.21.01.210.5
2021-22TOR (1st Rd)636.2.476.3414.02.51.00.217.3
2023-24NYK (1st Rd), IND (Conf. Semis)936.0.505.4106.01.10.91.015.1
2024-25NYKDET (1st Rd), (Conf. Semis), IND (Conf. Finals)1839.2.417.3394.61.32.01.216.3
Anunoby's trade to the Knicks in December 2023 positioned him for his first postseason with the team in , where his defensive presence helped limit opponents' efficiency early in the series. His playoff steals and blocks per game have consistently exceeded regular-season marks, underscoring elevated defensive contributions under playoff pressure.

College Statistics

Anunoby played two seasons for the , appearing in 50 total games before declaring for the . As a in 2015–16, he served as an efficient role player off the bench, contributing defensively while shooting over 56% from the field. His campaign in 2016–17 showed marked improvement in scoring and rebounding, but was cut short by a right requiring in January 2017, limiting him to 16 games and halting what could have been a longer college career.[](https://www.espn.com/m mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/18518896/indiana-og-anunoby-surgery-miss-rest-season)
SeasonGPMPGPPGRPGAPGSPGBPGFG%
2015–163413.74.92.60.50.80.8.569
2016–171625.111.15.41.41.31.3.557
Career5017.56.93.50.81.00.9.565
Over his college tenure, Anunoby averaged 6.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game, demonstrating strong field-goal efficiency at 56.5% while emerging as a versatile defender.

Awards and Honors

Individual Awards

Anunoby's individual awards highlight his defensive impact in the NBA, where he has been recognized for elite perimeter defense and disruption capabilities. In the 2022–23 season, Anunoby earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team, selected by a global panel of 100 writers and broadcasters for his contributions to the ' defensive rating of 114.0 (6th in the NBA). That same year, he led the NBA in total steals with 128 and steals per game at 1.9, becoming the first player in Raptors history and the first British-born player to top the league in the category. Anunoby was selected to the World Team for the 2019 NBA during Weekend, an exhibition game featuring top young players under 23 from around the league, where he scored 12 points in 18 minutes off the bench. Prior to his professional career, Anunoby was named to the Missouri Class 5 First Team All-State as a senior at Jefferson City High School in 2015, after averaging 18.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game to lead his team to a 24-5 record. As of November 2025, Anunoby has not been selected to an or finished in the top three for Defensive Player of the Year, though he placed seventh in the 2022–23 DPOY voting and received votes, finishing 8th, in the 2024–25 season for his continued defensive excellence with the .

Team Accomplishments

Anunoby contributed to the ' franchise-record 59 wins during the 2017–18 regular season, which secured the Atlantic Division title and the top seed in the Eastern Conference. The following year, the Raptors repeated as Atlantic Division champions en route to their first NBA championship, defeating the 4–2 in . Although sidelined by an emergency during the playoffs, Anunoby remained part of the roster and became the first British player to win an NBA title and reach . In the 2019–20 season, shortened by the , the Raptors captured their third straight Atlantic Division crown before advancing to the Eastern Conference Semifinals. With the , Anunoby helped spark a remarkable turnaround in the 2023–24 season, as the team posted a 20–3 record in the 23 regular-season games he played, including a league-record of +170 over his first 10 appearances. This surge propelled the to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, where they fell to the in seven games despite Anunoby's defensive presence anchoring the lineup. In the 2024–25 season, Anunoby contributed to the ' 51–31 regular-season record and second-place finish in the Atlantic Division. The team advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000, defeating the 4–2 in the first round and the 4–2 in the semifinals before losing to the . As of November 15, 2025, the have started the 2025–26 season competitively in the Atlantic Division.

References

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