Akintola Peter Akinniyi is a rising basketball star with a unique blend of Nigerian and American heritage. Currently making waves on the court for the Quinnipiac Bobcats. Akinniyi is known for his versatile playstyle as a small forward and power forward. His impressive skills and determination have already earned him a spot on Nigeria’s U18 national team, where he showcased his talents on the international stage. With his blend of athleticism, finesse, and drive, Akinniyi is undoubtedly a player to watch in the nearest future. In this interview KENNETH ATHEKAME, he spoke about his journey into basketball, among other issues: Excerpts:
Can you tell us about your journey into basketball and how your Nigerian heritage has influenced your career?
I was born in Texas to Nigerian parents, and my family plans to retire back to Nigeria. It’s interesting how it all started. One Christmas, my sister asked for a basketball as a gift, but she didn’t get it. The next year, we decided that if we both asked for two basketballs, maybe we’d get them. We got them, and from there, I just fell in love with the game. I felt like I was built for it—I was tall, naturally talented, and passionate. My Nigerian heritage has always motivated me to work hard and represent both my culture and my family.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while pursuing basketball in the U.S.?
It’s an incredibly competitive field. Everyone is fighting for a spot in the NBA, and it can feel like a dark world. For me, it was about keeping my head down, staying focused, and trusting in God to guide me. By doing that, I’ve managed to reach my goal of becoming a Division 1 basketball player. It hasn’t been easy, but faith and determination have kept me going.
Have you had any opportunity to play or train in Nigeria? How does Nigeria’s basketball scene compare to the U.S.?
I’ve not had the chance to train in Nigeria yet, but I know the basketball scene there is growing. Training in the U.S. is considered the best in the world, and European countries like Spain and France are catching up. However, the U.S. remains at the forefront, evident by its strong performances in global competitions.
Do you think Nigeria has the necessary infrastructure to produce world-class basketball players?
Right now, I don’t think Nigeria has the infrastructure it needs to produce world-class players consistently. A lot of Nigerian players are coming to the U.S. for better opportunities. We have the talent, we have the genetics, and we can be great, but what’s missing is funding. If Nigeria invests more in the sport, it can elevate the game.
What improvements would you suggest to enhance basketball development in Nigeria?
We need to bring basketball into schools, provide more funding, and build better infrastructure. Engaging the youth and investing in the grassroots level will lay a solid foundation for the future of the sport.
Have you considered playing for Nigeria’s national team, D’Tigers? Why or why not?
Yes, I was selected to play for Nigeria’s U-18 team when I was 17, but unfortunately, the plans were canceled due to lack of funding. Now, at 20, I’m ready to represent my homeland. I’m available and eager to play for the Nigerian national team when called upon. Being born in the U.S. but with Nigerian heritage, it’s an honor to potentially play for my country.
What has been your experience with international competitions, and how can Nigeria attract more diaspora players to represent the country?
While I haven’t had the chance to represent Nigeria internationally yet, I believe the key to attracting diaspora players is strong support from the government and the Nigerian Basketball Federation. We need to have youth teams in place and proper infrastructure to draw players in.
What do you see as the biggest obstacles facing Nigerian basketball?
The biggest challenge is the lack of government funding. Without that, it’s tough for basketball to grow at the level it should. We need the government to invest in the sport to help us reach our potential.
Do you think government policies and funding are sufficient to support Nigerian athletes?
No; the funding and policies are not enough. If Nigeria wants to compete on the world stage, the government needs to do more to support athletes and the infrastructure around them.
What role do you think the Nigerian diaspora can play in the country’s sports development?
The Nigerian diaspora can play a huge role by investing time, talent, and resources into developing the sport back home. The key is home-grown solutions. We have to be the ones to drive the change and invest in our future athletes.
Do you have any future plans to contribute to basketball in Nigeria?
Absolutely! I’d love to work with young Nigerian athletes. Beyond playing for the national team, I want to give back to my community in Oyo State, specifically Ogbomosho. Coaching, academies, and sponsorships are all ways I plan to contribute to the development of the sport in Nigeria.
What advice would you give to young Nigerian athletes dreaming of making it in professional basketball?
My advice is simple: If I can do it, anyone can. Stay faithful to God, keep working hard, and never give up. Look at players like Hakeem Olajuwon—he made it, and so can you.
How do you see the future of Nigerian basketball in the next decade?
If Nigeria starts putting more funding into basketball, there’s no limit to how far we can go. We have the talent, but we need the right support. If we get that, Nigerian basketball is going to explode.
Any final messages for Nigerian fans and aspiring athletes?
Stay faithful to God and keep pushing towards your dreams. The future of Nigerian basketball is bright, and we all have a part to play in making it a global force.
