Nnamdi Okongwu, 17 (ESPN Recruiting Nation Basketball)
Chino Hills – A gentle giant has fallen, as high school senior, Nnamdi Okongwu, was taken off life support and passed away on Fri., July 18.
After a skateboarding fall earlier last week that caused a serious head injury, Okongwu was airlifted on Tuesday to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton. According to reports, the injury resulted in a coma, and he was placed on life support until his family made the devastating decision to remove him.
The 6’8”, Class of 2015 senior was instrumental in helping to lead the Chino Hills High School Huskies to one of their best seasons ever this past year. With a Sierra League championship and a place in the CIF Southern Section Open Championship game, Okongwu – who played center position – was looking at a very prominent position on the team next year.
A scouting report from ESPN Recruiting Nation Basketball stated that, “Okongwu can dominate [at both] due to his size, length and strength. He has a big frame with long arms and soft hands. He snatches rebounds in traffic and can throw down some ferocious dunks in traffic. He has a fairly solid drop-step move as well.”
Though Okongwu – a Nigerian native – reportedly had received a scholarship offer from Loyola Marymount, other PAC—12 schools were showing interest as well. Colleges and the Chino Hills Huskies will have to carry on without the 17-year old hopeful.
Chino Hills High School will be holding a candlelight vigil for Okongwu on Tues., July 29, 7:30 p.m., at the football stadium. A memorial fund has also been set up at www.gofundme.com/4unnamdi.
