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By JOE APU
A Nigerian-born basketball player, Daniel Owoeye, has expressed his desire to represent both Nigeria on the international stage, as he looks to build a professional career grounded in resilience, education, and sporting excellence.
Owoeye, who left Nigeria at the age of five for Canada where he was raised for over a decade said his journey across both countries has shaped his character and competitive mindset.
“I came back to Nigeria to represent the nation because throughout my growth I experienced levels that needed resilience and hard work, which I want to exemplify in the spirit of Nigeria again,” he said.
The former Mount Royal University (Cougars) player, who featured for University in Canada, explained that his sporting journey began with football in Nigeria before transitioning to basketball after moving abroad.
“I started playing soccer in Nigeria. When I got to Canada, I continued with football, but later discovered basketball. It wasn’t easy at first—I faced a lot of adversity,” he said.
Owoeye described his early basketball experience as challenging, noting that he had to adapt quickly in a highly competitive environment.
“You come into an environment where everyone is more experienced than you. You face challenges and you have to build your way through it. That is where resilience comes from,” he added.
He also revealed that injuries and limited early opportunities nearly discouraged his progression, but persistence and discipline kept him on track toward university-level basketball.
Owoeye, who recently completed his university eligibility, played primarily as a centre, despite being considered undersized for the position.
“My impact was what mattered. I am adaptable and I can transition my playing style,” he said.
Inspired by global basketball icons such as Kobe Bryant and Giannis Antetokounmpo, Owoeye said their stories reinforced his belief in discipline, sacrifice, and self-belief.
Looking ahead, he expressed ambitions of reaching the NBA, naming the Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks among teams he admires.
“I would be very grateful for an opportunity in the NBA. I see inspiration in Giannis’ story, someone who rose from nothing through hard work,” he said.
On his connection to Nigerian basketball, Owoeye said he is still in the process of connecting with the national system and learning more about the setup of the senior men’s team, D’Tigers.
“I am here to discover the Nigerian national team. That is why I am back—to return to my roots and explore new opportunities,” he said.
He also highlighted his interest in grassroots development, saying he plans to support youth basketball programmes in both Canada and Nigeria.
“Community development starts with the right coaches and the right mindset. It is important to build young players early and instill resilience,” he said.
While acknowledging the differences in sports infrastructure between Canada and Nigeria, Owoeye stressed that Nigeria’s sporting environment still holds strong potential.
“In Canada, facilities help build athletes. In Nigeria, the facilities are not yet at the same level, but with investment and development, things can improve,” he noted.
Beyond sports, Owoeye also revealed that he studied nursing in Canada, describing it as part of his commitment to being a well-rounded individual with a career beyond basketball.
“Canada encourages you to grow academically and in sports. Nursing taught me discipline, sacrifice, and how to support people,” he said.
Now focused on transitioning into professional basketball, Owoeye says he is carefully evaluating opportunities that align with his development goals.
“I don’t want to rush into the wrong situation. I am building my skills so I can adapt to the next level,” he added.
He concluded by reaffirming his connection to both Nigeria and Canada, saying both countries have shaped his identity and ambitions.
“I have two homes now. Home is where your foundation is. Nigeria built my resilience, and Canada shaped my growth,” he said.
