Festus Ezeli

Ifeanyi Festus Ezeli-Ndulue, commonly known as Festus Ezeli, is a Nigerian-American sports analyst and former professional basketball player. He currently serves as a sports analyst for NBC Sports Bay Area and California, a position he has held since January 2022. In this role, he engages in discussions about NBA games and player performances, contributing insights based on his extensive experience in the league.12

Early Life and Education

Ezeli was born in Nigeria and later moved to the United States, where he played college basketball at Vanderbilt University. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 2012.1

NBA Career

Ezeli was selected as the 30th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. He played as a center for the Warriors from 2012 to 2016, winning an NBA Championship in 2015. After his time with the Warriors, he played for the Portland Trail Blazers until his retirement in 2021 due to knee surgery.12

Community Engagement

Beyond his sports career, Ezeli is actively involved in community service. He has worked with low-income communities and children, aiming to inspire them through sports. His family established a school in Nigeria and opened another school in Sacramento for children with special needs. Additionally, he is associated with NBA Africa, where he teaches basketball to youth.1

Media Presence

In addition to his role at NBC Sports Bay Area, Ezeli hosts a podcast titled "Rebuilding the Beast," which focuses on sharing stories of resilience and overcoming challenges.1