Ulrich Chomche, a 6-foot-11 center from the NBA Academy Africa, will have the opportunity to make history should he be selected in either round of the 2024 NBA draft.
Chomche, who was born in Cameroon, was with the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal from 2019 to 2024. He can become the first player from the NBA Academy Africa to be drafted and the first player to be drafted directly out of any of the academies (Global, Latin).
The NBA Academy, started in 2016, is a year-round basketball development program that provides the top high school-age prospects from outside of the United States with the necessary tools to unlock their skills and maximize their potential.
He would be the sixth NBA Academy graduate to be selected in the draft, joining Josh Giddey (2021, Oklahoma City), Dyson Daniels (2022, New Orleans), Bennedict Mathurin (2022, Indiana), Olivier-Maxence Prosper (2023, Dallas) and Mojave King (2023, Portland).
“Ulrich is a great ambassador for NBA Academy Africa,” said Chris Ebersole, the NBA’s head of international basketball operations. “(He) is an inspiration to his teammates and young players from Cameroon, and a trailblazer who is looking to become the first NBA Academy prospect drafted directly to the NBA.”
Chomche was a standout with the NBA Academy Africa at the G League Winter Showcase in December. He also competed with Team World at the Nike Hoop Summit in April, recording four points, four rebounds, three blocked shots and one assist in a 98-75 loss to Team USA.
The 18-year-old declared for the draft in April and participated in the combine last month, recording five points and four rebounds in one scrimmage game. He also registered the fourth-fastest shuttle run time (2.84 seconds).
With the NBA Draft just a few days away, here's a chance to get to know Ulrich Chomche, a promising talent from Cameroon. #NBAAfrica #NBADraft pic.twitter.com/mnwO9I9JM7
— NBA Africa (@NBA_Africa) June 25, 2024
Chomche has good size and mobility, which enables him to work in the post and protect the paint with his 7-foot, 4-inch wingspan. He can also step out and spread the floor a bit, which should only improve with more reps at the next level.
He is projected to be a second-round pick on Thursday after a solid predraft process. He had known workouts with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Utah Jazz and will be looking to carry that momentum with him as he transitions to the NBA.
“Since enrolling in NBA Academy Africa, Ulrich transformed his skillset by adding to and sharpening his game every single year, which is a testament to his work ethic and the NBA Academy Africa coaching staff,” Ebersole said. “Ulrich’s defensive prowess and instincts distinguish him as a prospect, while his relentless drive and team-first mentality distinguish him as a leader.”
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