Chidi Chiakwelu, who brings a towering presence at 6-feet-7, has made his long-awaited college decision, marking a significant milestone in his basketball journey. Next season, he will play at Presbyterian College.
“The head coach personally reached out and showed interest in me and set out a plan for me that connected to my goals,” said Chiakwelu. “Along with playing basketball, I plan to major in biology. Biology is one of the fields Presbyterian specializes in. It’s also a Christian school, which meant a lot to me.”
Before making his decision, fans wondered why Chiakwelu was still uncommitted and why more schools weren’t recruiting him. Despite standing 6-foot-7, Chiakwelu believed his shooting ability was one factor that hindered his recruitment. However, his dedication to improvement and perseverance have brought him to this pivotal moment.
“Throughout my high school career, I didn’t shoot enough jumpers because I wasn’t confident in my shot. My jump shot wasn’t really apparent until my senior year when I began shooing more in the games. After noticing I needed work on it, I worked consistently with Coach Frank to improve that aspect of my game,” said Chiakwelu.
Chiakwelu‘s basketball journey began later than most. He didn’t pick up a basketball until the 7th grade during physical education class while at Reading Junior High School. Before that, soccer was Chiakwelu’s passion.
His classmates and teachers noticed his height and encouraged him to try basketball. Heeding their advice, Chiakwelu tried out for the basketball team but failed to make the cut in his first attempt.
“I was devastated and stopped playing for a while after that,” said Chiakwelu.
After not making the 7th grade team, Chiakwelu tried out again in his 8th grade year and successfully made the team. It was during this time that Coach Burton introduced him to Hakeem Olajuwon’s AAU team, Dream Elite. This opportunity marked the beginning of Chiakwelu‘s serious commitment to basketball.
As a freshman, Chiakwelu played on the freshman A team and continued to develop his skills with Dream Elite. His hard work paid off when he entered his sophomore year as the best player on the varsity team, ranking in the top three nationally for blocked shots. That year, he also competed on the EYBL circuit with Houston Hoops, further honing his abilities.
“I had a good sophomore summer with the Hoston Hoops. Most of the games I played were 16U but I also played some 17U as well,” said Chiakwelu.
Chiakwelu‘s junior season, however, did not reflect the continuous improvement he had hoped for. As a result, Houston Hoops began to recruit new players, leading to Chiakwelu spending much of his time on the bench. Determined not to let this setback define him, Chiakwelu sought opportunities elsewhere, eventually finishing the summer with TJ Ford Academy on the Adidas circuit. Despite this period of uncertainty, he remained focused on his development.
In his senior year, Chiakwelu had his best season yet, averaging 14.2 points, 10.2 rebounds, and five blocks per game. This stellar performance reignited interest in Division I programs, but Chiakwelu was meticulous in his college search. He wanted a program that valued his development both on and off the court while offering a strong academic foundation.
“Of course, there was pressure in not picking a school early. I was asked every day, ‘Where are you going to school?’ Or ‘why haven’t you committed already?’ It’s good to have your school finalized as early as possible, but everyone has to run their own race,” said Chiakwelu. “I want to major in Biology and start a healthcare profession once basketball is over, as I’ve always liked science and my mom is a nurse.”
While looking back and hoping to inspire the next group of upcoming athletes Chiakwelu recalls the advice the assistant coach at George Ranch High School gave him.
“Nobody cares, keep working,” said Chiakwelu.
Chidu’s journey from a soccer-loving athlete to a promising basketball player is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work. As he embarks on this new chapter, Chiakwelu‘s story will undoubtedly inspire others to pursue their dreams with the same unwavering determination.
About Chidi Chiakwelu :
Class: 2024
IG: @c_chiakwelu
Twitter: @c_chiakwelu
Position: Forward
Height & weight: 6-feet-7, 200 pounds
Players he studies: Solomon Washington (Texas A&M), Ogugua “OG” Anunoby Jr. (New York Knicks)
Favorite artist: Lil Baby
Status: Committed to Presbyterian College
Favorite subject: Biology
Shout-outs: Coach Frank, Coach Black, Coach Richardson, Coach Tim, and TJ Ford
