Precious Achiuwa’s journey, born on Sep. 19, 1999, in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, reflects a compelling narrative of talent, dedication, and familial influence. Raised by Pentecostal ministers Eunice and Donatus, Achiuwa’s upbringing was rooted in values that would shape his character on and off the basketball court. He shares this foundation with three brothers—God’sgift, God’swill, and Promise—and two sisters—Grace and Peace.
Initially drawn to soccer, Achiuwa’s trajectory in sports shifted dramatically when he moved to the United States in eighth grade. The move marked a pivotal moment as he redirected his focus towards basketball, a decision that would ultimately set the stage for his remarkable journey.
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High school became the canvas where Achiuwa painted his basketball prowess. St. Benedict’s Prep in Newark, New Jersey witnessed his emergence as a formidable player during his sophomore and junior years. Averaging an impressive 18.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.9 blocks, and 2.2 steals per game as a junior, he earned recognition on the MaxPreps Junior All-American second team.
For his senior campaign, Achiuwa sought new challenges at Montverde Academy in Montverde, Florida. There, he maintained his high standards, averaging 14.0 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. His contributions played a key role in Montverde Academy reaching the semifinals at the GEICO High School Nationals, and his stellar performance earned him a spot on the USA Today All-USA third team.
Achiuwa’s national profile continued to rise with appearances in prestigious events like the 2019 McDonald’s All-American Game, where he led all scorers with 22 points, and the 2019 Nike Hoop Summit. These experiences laid the groundwork for his next chapter—college basketball.
Memphis became Achiuwa’s collegiate home, where he faced the challenge of stepping into the shoes of the highly-touted James Wiseman. Despite initial overshadowing, Achiuwa proved himself indispensable, quickly becoming an integral part of the team. Standing at 6-9, he showcased versatility, averaging an impressive 15.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game during his freshman season.
Notably, Achiuwa recorded 18 double-doubles, displaying his consistency and impact. His standout performance against Tulane on Feb. 29, where he tallied 22 points, 22 rebounds, and five blocks, showcased his dominance on the court. Achiuwa’s efforts culminated in both AAC Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year honors, a testament to his exceptional contributions.
Beyond scoring, Achiuwa’s defensive prowess was evident as he finished third in the conference with 1.9 blocks per game and led in defensive win shares. Remarkably, he played every game in his freshman season, further solidifying his reputation as a reliable and durable player.
The culmination of his college success led Achiuwa to declare for the 2020 NBA Draft. Selected as the 20th overall pick by the Miami Heat, he seamlessly transitioned to the professional league, signing with the Heat on November 25, 2020. His impact in the NBA mirrored his college achievements, showcasing his ability to adapt and contribute at the highest level.
On August 6, 2021, Achiuwa’s journey took a new turn as the Toronto Raptors acquired him from the Heat through a sign-and-trade deal. This move marked a significant development in his professional career, exposing him to new challenges and opportunities.
In a surprising twist on December 30, 2023, Achiuwa found himself part of a trade to the New York Knicks, alongside OG Anunoby and Malachi Flynn. The trade involved the exchange of RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and a second-round pick, adding a new dimension to Achiuwa’s NBA journey.
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As Achiuwa continues to evolve in the professional basketball arena, his story resonates as one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. From the streets of Port Harcourt to the hardwood of the NBA, Precious Achiuwa’s journey exemplifies the power of talent, hard work, and a steadfast belief in one’s abilities.
