Whenever OG Anunoby steps onto an NBA court, his quiet intensity and lockdown defense demand the opponent’s full attention. Yet behind the stoic demeanor of the New York Knicks’ defensive anchor is a compelling life story that spans three continents. Ogugua Anunoby Jr. — the “OG” that fans chant — arrived in the NBA via a path far less traveled than most, a journey that has shaped him into one of the league’s most fascinating and formidable players.
Born on July 17, 1997, in London, England, to Nigerian parents of Igbo descent, Anunoby’s background is a rich blend of cultures. British by birth and Nigerian by heritage, he represents a unique bridge in the basketball world. Standing a powerful 6 feet 7 inches (2.01 m) tall and weighing a sturdy 240 lbs (109 kg), this 28-year-old (as of 2026) small forward has already carved out a decade of NBA experience defined by elite defense and a soft-spoken, hard-nosed work ethic.
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College and High School Journey
The foundation of Anunoby’s professional career was laid in the United States, beginning at Jefferson City High School in Jefferson City, Missouri. From the Missouri prep ranks, his talents took him to the collegiate stage, where he became a standout for the Indiana Hoosiers.
Over two seasons in Bloomington, Anunoby showcased the defensive versatility and raw athleticism that would soon make him a coveted NBA prospect, proving that his game was ready for the next level.
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Professional Career and Contract Details
After declaring for the 2017 NBA Draft, OG Anunoby was selected 23rd overall by the Toronto Raptors. His professional career quickly reached its apex in just his second season when he won an NBA championship with Toronto in 2019. After six-plus seasons north of the border, he was traded to the New York Knicks during the 2023-24 campaign, a move that solidified the franchise’s long-term plans.
Those plans were made official when Anunoby inked a massive five-year, $212.5 million contract extension in 2024. The deal includes a player option for the 2028-29 season and pays him an average annual salary of $42.5 million, a testament to his status as a cornerstone of the Knicks’ present and future.
