Released on Nov. 21, NBA Africa’s first documentary series “Born and Bred” takes a look at prospects who are attending or previously attended NBA Academy Africa. The first episode of the five-part series focuses on the Coug’s own Rueben Chinyelu, whose journey from Nigeria to Pullman came via the academy.

NBA Academy Africa was opened in 2017 and serves as both a basketball training facility and an educational academy for teenage basketball prospects from all over Africa. Since opening, the academy has sent a number of players to the NCAA, including Chinyelu and former Coug Efe Abogidi.

“We’re thrilled to launch “Born & Bred”, a first-of-its-kind initiative for NBA Africa that will showcase the inspirational stories of prospects from across the continent,” NBA Africa Head of Basketball Operations Franck Traore said.  “Each of these players has a unique story.”

Chinyelu’s episode, titled “Basketball Chose Me”, highlights his journey from never having played just a few years ago to playing with pros in the Basketball African League over the summer before he came to WSU.

“I never would’ve thought that the game would take me this far,” Chinyelu said. “While I know I’ve got plenty more work to do and many more goals to accomplish, I am grateful to my family, friends, coaches and teammates for taking part in this project, and I hope it provides motivation to other young players to search for their passion and follow their dreams.”

His journey included an NBA Academy Games championship in Atlanta and a third-place finish for his BAL team Stade Malien. The episode shows interviews with family members, coaches and of course Chinyelu himself. 

While most of the show requires a Leaguepass membership to watch, the first episode is available for free. It can be watched on NBA.com or the NBA App with a free NBA ID account.