Nigel Hayes-Davis Bio
Nigel Hayes-Davis (né Hayes; born December 16, 1994) is an American professional basketball player for the Phoenix Suns of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He attended Whitmer High School in Toledo, Ohio, and played college basketball for the Wisconsin Badgers. A two-time All-EuroLeague First Team selection, Hayes-Davis holds the record for most points scored in a EuroLeague game, having scored 50 points against Alba Berlin in the 2023–24 season. He won the EuroLeague championship in 2025 with Fenerbahçe, earning the Final Four MVP award in the process.
Early Life and Background
Nigel Hayes-Davis was born in Westerville, Ohio. He attended Whitmer High School in Toledo, where he began to develop his skills in basketball. Hayes-Davis was a standout player in high school, which paved the way for his collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin. During his time at Wisconsin, he became known for his scoring ability and leadership on the court. He graduated in May 2017 with a degree in business finance and investment banking, showcasing his dedication both to athletics and academics.
Path to Basketball
After a successful high school career, Nigel Hayes-Davis joined the Wisconsin Badgers, where he played from 2013 to 2017. In his junior season, he was named to the first team All-Big Ten after leading the Badgers in scoring and assists. His senior year saw him average 14.0 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, further solidifying his reputation as a top player in college basketball. Despite going undrafted in the 2017 NBA Draft, Hayes-Davis’s talent did not go unnoticed, and he began his professional career shortly thereafter.
Nigel Hayes-Davis Career
Early Career (2017–2018)
Nigel Hayes-Davis started his professional career with the Westchester Knicks in the NBA G League after going undrafted in 2017. He signed a partially guaranteed deal with the New York Knicks but was waived shortly after. Hayes-Davis then spent the majority of the season with the Westchester Knicks, where he made a significant impact and was named to the NBA G League All-Rookie Team. His early career laid the foundation for his future success in international basketball.
Breakthrough (2018–2025)
Hayes-Davis’s breakthrough came when he signed with Galatasaray in Turkey in 2018, where he averaged 12.6 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. His performance caught the attention of larger clubs, leading to a move to Žalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania. During his time there, he helped the team win two Lithuanian League championships and gained valuable experience in European competitions. In 2021, he joined FC Barcelona, contributing to the team’s success in the EuroLeague.
Notable Works and Milestones
In 2025, Hayes-Davis achieved significant milestones by winning the EuroLeague championship with Fenerbahçe and being named the EuroLeague Final Four MVP. He also became a two-time All-EuroLeague First Team selection and set the record for most points scored in a EuroLeague game, with 50 points against Alba Berlin.
Nigel Hayes-Davis Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Nigel Hayes-Davis has received numerous nominations and accolades, particularly for his performances in European leagues. His recognition as a two-time All-EuroLeague First Team player highlights his impact on the court and his status among the elite players in basketball.
Nigel Hayes-Davis Awards Won
Nigel Hayes-Davis has won several prestigious awards, including the EuroLeague championship in 2025 and the EuroLeague Final Four MVP award in the same year. His achievements in the Turkish League and EuroLeague further solidify his reputation as a top player in international basketball.
Nigel Hayes-Davis Family
Information regarding Nigel Hayes-Davis’s family is limited. However, it is known that he changed his surname to Hayes-Davis in honor of his stepfather, indicating a close familial bond.
Personal Life
In addition to his basketball career, Nigel Hayes-Davis is known for his outspoken nature on social issues, particularly regarding racial justice and athlete compensation. He has a well-known cat named Sly, whom he affectionately refers to as his grey shadow. This personal connection highlights his lighter side off the court.
