Emeka Okafor

Emeka Okafor is a Power Forward for the Charlotte Bobcats. He is widely regarded for excellent defense and rebounding. He was awarded the 2005 NBA Rookie of the Year and is considered the franchise player, along with Jason Richardson, of the Charlotte Bobcats.

Fast Facts

1. Born: September: 28, 1982
2. Birth Place: Houston, Texas
3. Height: 6'10"
4. Weight: 252 lbs
5. High School: Bellaire High School
6. College: University of Connecticut
7. 2005: NBA Rookie of the Year
8. Member of Team USA

Early Life

Chukwuemeka Ndubuisi Okafor was born in Houston, Texas on September 28, 1982. He attended Bellaire High School in Texas, then later the University of Connecticut. He would play with fellow future NBA players Charlie Villanueva, Josh Boone and Ben Gordon. He would led the team to the NCAA National Championship in 2004. Along the way he would pick up the NCAA Basketball Tournament Most Outstanding Player. He would also be named the National Defensive Player of the Year and Big East Player of the Year Award.

Pro Career

Okafor was selected with the second pick in the 2004 NBA Draft by the Chrlotte Bobcats. That summer he would represent the United States in the 2004 Athens Olympics bringing home the Bronze Medal. In his first year in the NBA he would win the NBA Rookie of the Year Award. In the following years he would establish himself as an excellent defender and shot blocker, as well as a rebounder. Okafor, along with Jason Richardson are considered the faces of the franchise for many years to come.

Emeka Okafor Timeline

• September 28, 1982: Born
• 2003: Wins College National Title
• 2005: Wins Rookie of the Year with the Charlotte Bobcats
• 2007: Named to USA Basketball Team

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