Oso Ighodaro Signed Suns Jersey

Oso Ighodaro entered the NBA as a second-round pick (40th overall) by the Phoenix Suns in 2024, bringing exceptional versatility and basketball IQ from his standout career at Marquette University. His journey through college basketball saw him develop from a role player into one of the Big East's most complete big men, known for his defensive versatility, passing ability, and high-energy play.

Ighodaro's selection by Phoenix reflected the franchise's belief in his ability to contribute as a modern center who can switch defensively, facilitate from the elbow, and impact winning through intelligence and effort rather than traditional scoring. His early professional career focuses on adapting his college success to the NBA level while showcasing the playmaking and defensive skills that made him a unique prospect.

40th overall NBA Draft pick (2024)

Big East All-Defensive Team (2024)

Averaged 13.4 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 3.8 APG at Marquette (2023-24).

Led Marquette in assists as a center (2023-24)

Phoenix Suns (2024-Present)
Marquette Golden Eagles (2020-2024)

Oso Ighodaro represents the modern NBA's evolution toward skilled big men who can facilitate offense, defend multiple positions, and impact winning through basketball intelligence rather than traditional post scoring. His exceptional passing ability as a center and his willingness to make the right play regardless of personal statistics showcase the team-first mentality that championship organizations value.

Ighodaro's development at Marquette and his transition to the NBA highlight the increasing importance of versatile big men who can operate in multiple systems and complement perimeter-oriented offenses. His unique skill set—combining defensive switchability, court vision, and unselfish play—represents the future of the center position in a league that increasingly values positionless basketball and players who elevate those around them.