History of OG Anunoby in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 16, 2026

OG Anunoby is a professional basketball player known for his elite defensive versatility and reliable perimeter shooting. Standing at 6'7", he has established himself as one of the NBA's premier '3-and-D' wings, capable of guarding multiple positions while spacing the floor. Drafted by the Toronto Raptors in 2017, Anunoby played a pivotal role in their 2019 NBA Championship run. Throughout his career, he has earned a reputation for his quiet demeanor, disciplined work ethic, and ability to impact winning without needing high usage rates. Following stints with the Raptors and the New York Knicks, he continues to be highly regarded for his high basketball IQ, wingspan, and consistency as a complementary star. His presence on the court significantly elevates team defensive ratings, making him a cornerstone player for contending franchises.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

July 1997: Birth of OG Anunoby

On 17 July 1997, Ogugua 'OG' Anunoby was born in Harlesden, London, England, to Nigerian parents of Igbo descent.

October 2014: Commitment to Indiana University

In October 2014, OG Anunoby officially committed to playing collegiate basketball for Indiana University, selecting them over several other schools including Georgia, Iowa, George Mason, and Ole Miss.

2015: Freshman Season at Indiana University

During the 2015-16 academic year, which began in 2015, OG Anunoby debuted as a freshman basketball player for the Indiana Hoosiers. He participated in 34 games throughout the season, maintaining averages of 6.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game.

January 2017: Season-Ending Knee Injury

On 18 January 2017, Anunoby suffered a right knee injury during a game against Penn State, which necessitated season-ending surgery and concluded his play for that period.

April 2017: Declaration for the 2017 NBA Draft

On 10 April 2017, Anunoby officially declared for the 2017 NBA draft and hired an agent, effectively ending his collegiate career with the Indiana Hoosiers.

2017: NBA Draft Selection

In 2017, OG Anunoby transitioned from his college basketball career with the Indiana Hoosiers to the professional level after being selected by the Toronto Raptors in the first round of the 2017 NBA draft.

January 2019: Named to 2019 Rising Stars Challenge

On 29 January 2019, OG Anunoby was selected as a member of the World Team to represent the United Kingdom in the 2019 Rising Stars Challenge.

2019: NBA Championship Win

In 2019, OG Anunoby achieved a significant career milestone by winning an NBA championship as a member of the Toronto Raptors, despite being sidelined by an injury during the finals series.

March 2020: Career-High Performance Against Denver

On March 1, 2020, OG Anunoby delivered an impressive individual performance by recording 32 points, seven steals, seven rebounds, and three assists during a 133–118 loss to the Denver Nuggets.

December 2020: Contract Extension with Toronto

On December 21, 2020, Anunoby solidified his future with the Toronto Raptors by signing a four-year, $72 million contract extension that keeps him with the team through the 2024–25 season.

January 2021: Franchise History Milestone

On January 24, 2021, Anunoby scored a season-high 30 points and added five steals in a win against the Indiana Pacers, becoming only the second player in franchise history, alongside Kawhi Leonard, to record multiple games with at least 30 points, five rebounds, and five steals.

2021: Jersey Retirement at Jefferson City High School

In 2021, OG Anunoby was honored by his alma mater, Jefferson City High School, which officially retired his jersey to commemorate his accomplishments.

February 2022: Right finger fracture injury

On 25 February 2022, OG Anunoby was removed from active play after sustaining a fracture to his right finger during a game against the Charlotte Hornets.

November 2022: Season-high performance against Miami Heat

On 16 November 2022, OG Anunoby achieved a season-high scoring record of 32 points, contributing to a 112–104 victory for the Toronto Raptors over the Miami Heat.

2022: Defensive Excellence and League Leadership

During the 2022-23 season, Anunoby established himself as a top defender by leading the league in steals and earning his first selection to the NBA All-Defensive Team.

December 2023: Trade to the New York Knicks

In December 2023, OG Anunoby was officially traded to the New York Knicks, marking a significant transition in his professional basketball career.

2023: Investment in London Lions

In 2023, OG Anunoby expanded his professional portfolio by becoming a minority stake owner of the London Lions basketball team.

January 2024: Knicks Debut and Plus-Minus Record

On 1 January 2024, Anunoby played his first game for the Knicks, contributing 17 points and six rebounds in a victory against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Subsequently, within his first 10 games, he set a new NBA record by achieving a plus-minus rating of +170.

February 2024: Elbow Surgery

On 8 February 2024, it was announced that Anunoby would be sidelined for approximately one month after undergoing surgery to remove a loose bone fragment from his right elbow.

June 2024: Declining Player Option

On 24 June 2024, Anunoby opted out of his $19.9 million player option with the New York Knicks, officially entering free agency.

July 2024: Anunoby Re-signs with the Knicks

On 6 July 2024, OG Anunoby secured a significant long-term commitment by re-signing with the New York Knicks on a five-year, $212.5 million contract.

2024: Conclusion of Contract Period

The year 2024 marks the final portion of the four-year, $72 million extension signed by Anunoby in December 2020, covering his tenure through the 2024–25 season.

May 2026: Named to NBA All-Defensive Second Team

On 22 May 2026, OG Anunoby earned significant recognition for his defensive prowess when he was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team for the second time in his career.

2026: NBA Championship and All-Defensive Honors

In 2026, Anunoby earned his second All-Defensive Team selection and played a pivotal role in the New York Knicks' historic 2026 NBA Finals run. During Game 4 of the Finals, he secured a game-winning tip-in shot that helped complete the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history, ultimately leading the franchise to their first championship in 53 years.

22 June 2017: 2017 NBA Draft Selection

On 22 June 2017, OG Anunoby reached a major career milestone when he was selected as the 23rd overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft by the Toronto Raptors.