History of Josh Okogie in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 13, 2026

Josh Okogie is a professional basketball player known for his high-energy defensive versatility and athletic playstyle. Born in Nigeria and raised in the United States, he played collegiate basketball for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets before being selected 20th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Throughout his NBA career, which includes a tenure with the Phoenix Suns, Okogie has established himself as a reliable perimeter defender and a high-effort player who contributes significantly to team energy. His physical tools, including a notable wingspan, allow him to guard multiple positions effectively. Off the court, Okogie is also recognized for representing the Nigerian national basketball team, D'Tigers, in international competitions, showcasing his commitment to his heritage and global basketball development.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

September 1998: Birth of Joshua Aloiye Okogie

Joshua Aloiye Okogie, who would go on to become a professional basketball player, was born in September 1998.

2016: Recruitment and Georgia Tech Signing

In 2016, Josh Okogie entered the recruiting class as an unranked shooting guard by ESPN before officially signing to play basketball for Georgia Tech.

2017: Freshman Success and ACC Recognition

During the 2017 season, Okogie completed a standout freshman year at Georgia Tech where he averaged 16.1 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, earning a spot on the ACC All-Freshman Team.

June 21, 2018: NBA Draft Selection

On June 21, 2018, Josh Okogie reached a major career milestone when he was selected as the 20th overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2018 NBA draft.

2018: NBA Draft Selection

In 2018, Josh Okogie was selected as the 20th overall pick in the NBA draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves, marking the start of his professional career.

2018: Sophomore Season and NBA Draft Entry

In 2018, following a sophomore campaign where he led Georgia Tech in scoring with 18.2 points per game and earned third-team All-ACC honors, Okogie officially confirmed his intention to enter the 2018 NBA Draft on May 21.

January 29, 2019: Named to Rising Stars Challenge

On January 29, 2019, Josh Okogie was recognized for his performance by being named a member of the World Team for the 2019 NBA Rising Stars Challenge.

2019: Participation in 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup

In 2019, Josh Okogie represented the Nigerian national basketball team as a player during the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

July 2, 2022: Signing with the Phoenix Suns

On July 2, 2022, Josh Okogie officially joined the Phoenix Suns by signing a one-year minimum contract with the franchise.

2022: Signing with the Phoenix Suns

After completing his four-season tenure with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Josh Okogie signed with the Phoenix Suns in 2022.

July 11, 2023: Contract Extension with the Suns

On July 11, 2023, Josh Okogie secured his tenure with the Phoenix Suns by signing a new two-year contract worth $5.8 million, which included a player option for the second year.

July 13, 2024: Multi-year Contract Agreement

On July 13, 2024, Josh Okogie committed to the Phoenix Suns again, signing a two-year deal valued at $16 million to continue his professional basketball career with the team.

January 15, 2025: Trade to the Charlotte Hornets

On January 15, 2025, Josh Okogie was traded to the Charlotte Hornets along with three future second-round picks in exchange for Nick Richards and a single future second-round draft pick.

July 15, 2025: Waived by the Charlotte Hornets

On July 15, 2025, Josh Okogie's tenure with the Charlotte Hornets came to an end after he was officially waived by the team.

July 22, 2025: Signing with the Houston Rockets

On July 22, 2025, professional basketball player Josh Okogie officially joined the Houston Rockets by signing a one-year, minimum contract.

2025: Competition in FIBA AfroBasket 2025

During 2025, Josh Okogie is an active member of the Nigerian national basketball team competing in the FIBA AfroBasket 2025 tournament.

July 9, 2026: Josh Okogie Signs with Utah Jazz

On July 9, 2026, Josh Okogie officially signed a two-year contract worth $12 million to join the Utah Jazz, a deal which includes a team option for the second year.