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Ugonna Onyenso Aims to Fill Isaiah Stewart's Role After Surprise Pistons Selection
The 22-year-old Nigerian center is adjusting to professional basketball following a winding college path that nearly ended his NBA hopes.
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Draft Surprise and Trade Path
Ugonna Onyenso entered the draft expecting to go undrafted or as the final selection. Instead, the Pistons acquired his rights at the 53rd pick after a series of trades that began with the Rockets and moved through the Knicks. The move came after Detroit sent Isaiah Stewart to the Grizzlies in exchange for three future second-round selections, opening a path for the newcomer to compete for a frontcourt spot.
College Comeback at Virginia
Onyenso had feared his professional prospects were finished after limited production across 24 games in a transfer season at Kansas State. A subsequent year at Virginia restored momentum, earning him a spot on the ACC All-Defensive team and reviving his draft stock. The Nigeria native, who developed through NBA Academy Africa and Putnam Science Academy, credited patience and coaching opportunities for the turnaround.
Adjusting to NBA Pace and Defense
Now working with assistant coach Assane Sene, Onyenso is focusing on timing his shot-blocking and rebounding at a faster tempo while building conditioning for pick-and-roll situations. Sene has emphasized staying hungry and improving strength and spacing, drawing lessons from players like Khaman Maluach. The Pistons open their schedule against the Celtics on October 20.
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