Charles Bassey Bio
Charles Akemini Bassey is a Nigerian professional basketball player who currently plays for the Memphis Grizzlies of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers and was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2021 NBA Draft. Born in Lagos, Nigeria on October 28, 2000, he transitioned from soccer to basketball at a young age and has since made significant strides in his career, including receiving multiple accolades during his college tenure.
Early Life and Background
Charles Bassey was born in Lagos, Nigeria, where he initially played soccer until the age of 12. His journey into basketball began when he was discovered by a youth basketball coach while selling fried chicken on the side of the road. At that time, he was wearing flip-flops that were too small for him. Shortly after this discovery, he stopped playing soccer to focus on developing his basketball skills. By age 14, Bassey was named the most valuable player (MVP) of the Giants of Africa basketball camp, a program established by Toronto Raptors executive Masai Ujiri.
At 14, Charles Bassey moved to the United States to continue his basketball career, attending St. Anthony Catholic High School in San Antonio, Texas. He quickly became one of the top prospects in his class, averaging 20.2 points, 17.1 rebounds, and 5.9 blocks per game as a freshman. His impressive performance led his team to the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) title game. However, his sophomore season was marked by challenges, including being ruled ineligible by TAPPS, which led to his team switching leagues to allow him to play.
Path to Basketball
After transferring to DeSales High School in Louisville, Kentucky, Bassey continued to excel, averaging 19.4 points and 12.8 rebounds per game during his junior season. His talent did not go unnoticed, and he quickly became a consensus five-star recruit, ultimately committing to play college basketball for Western Kentucky University. Bassey’s decision to reclassify to the 2018 class solidified his status as one of the top centers in the nation.
During his freshman year at Western Kentucky, Bassey made an immediate impact, averaging 14.6 points, 10 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game. His performance earned him First Team All-Conference USA, Defensive Player of the Year, and Freshman of the Year honors. Despite facing a setback due to a tibial plateau fracture during his sophomore season, he returned stronger and was named Conference USA Player of the Year in 2021.
Charles Bassey Career
Early Career (2021–2022)
Charles Bassey was selected in the second round of the 2021 NBA Draft with the 53rd overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers. He joined the team for the 2021 NBA Summer League and signed with the 76ers on September 24, 2021. His time with the team was short-lived, as he was waived on October 13, 2022, after showing promise but limited playing time.
San Antonio Spurs (2022–2025)
On October 24, 2022, Bassey signed a two-way contract with the San Antonio Spurs, allowing him to split time with their NBA G League affiliate, the Austin Spurs. He was named to the G League’s inaugural Next Up Game for the 2022–23 season, showcasing his potential. On February 14, 2023, the Spurs converted his deal to a four-year, $10.2 million standard contract. However, his season was cut short due to a left knee injury, which was later diagnosed as a non-displaced fracture of his left patella.
In December 2023, Bassey faced another setback when he tore his left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), further impacting his career. Despite these challenges, he continued to work hard to recover and improve his game. On July 8, 2024, he was waived by the Spurs but was re-signed shortly after. He participated in the 2025 NBA Summer League with the Boston Celtics before signing with the Atlanta Hawks, although he was waived prior to the start of the regular season.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Charles Bassey has achieved significant milestones, including being named to the NBA G League All-Rookie Team in 2022 and earning multiple accolades during his college career, such as being a two-time Conference USA Player of the Year and a two-time Defensive Player of the Year.
Charles Bassey Award Nominations
Charles Bassey has received several nominations and accolades throughout his basketball career, particularly during his time in college. His recognition as a consensus five-star recruit and his multiple Conference USA awards highlight his talent and potential in the sport.
Charles Bassey Awards Won
Throughout his career, Charles Bassey has won numerous awards, including the Conference USA Player of the Year in 2021 and being named to the First Team All-Conference USA twice. His defensive skills earned him the Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year award on two occasions as well.
Charles Bassey Family
Charles Bassey faced personal challenges early in his life, including the death of his mother shortly after he arrived in the United States. His father, Akpan Ebong Bassey, encouraged him to stay in the U.S. for financial reasons, which helped shape his basketball career.
Personal Life
Charles Bassey was brought to the United States by Canadian-born basketball coach Hennssy Auriantal, who helped him navigate the transition and pursue his basketball dreams. Auriantal and his wife were granted conservatorship over Bassey, providing him with support during his formative years in America.
