RismadarVoice Reporters
November 7, 2026
Nigerian basketball player Stephanie Okechukwu has made history as the tallest player to feature in NCAA Division I women’s basketball, following her debut for Texas Tech University in the United States.
Standing at 7 feet 1 inch (2.16 metres), the 21-year-old centre made her first collegiate appearance on Thursday, November 5, helping the Texas Tech Lady Raiders secure a commanding 64–37 victory over Charlotte.
Okechukwu delivered an impressive defensive performance, recording six points, 10 rebounds and three blocked shots in 21 minutes.
She scored her first collegiate points from two free throws, while teammate Destinee Hooks led the Lady Raiders with 16 points.
The Nigerian’s height makes her the first seven-foot player to compete in NCAA Division I women’s basketball, surpassing the previous record held by Marvadene Anderson, who stood at 6 feet 11 inches during her time at Pittsburgh.
Speaking after the game, Texas Tech head coach Krista Gerlich acknowledged Okechukwu’s potential while emphasising that she still had considerable room for improvement.
Gerlich expressed confidence that the Nigerian would continue developing as she gained more experience at the collegiate level.
Born in Umunneochi, Abia State, Okechukwu completed her secondary school education in Japan in 2024 before participating in Amateur Athletic Union basketball in the Philippines and continuing her training in Nigeria.
She signed with Texas Tech in January 2026 but did not feature in competitive games during the previous season.
Although making her collegiate debut, Okechukwu is officially listed as a sophomore on the university’s roster.
Her participation followed a successful appeal by Texas Tech to the National Collegiate Athletic Association over her eligibility.
The NCAA had initially granted her two years of eligibility after considering the period between her secondary school graduation and collegiate enrolment.
However, the governing body approved four years of eligibility on November 4, allowing her to continue competing while pursuing her university education.
The decision was welcomed by Okechukwu and the university’s coaching staff, who described it as an important development for her academic and sporting ambitions.
With a reported wingspan of 7 feet 4 inches, Okechukwu is expected to provide a significant defensive presence as Texas Tech progresses through the 2026–2027 basketball season.
Her historic debut marks a notable achievement for Nigerian representation in international collegiate basketball.
