Obinna Ekezie

Obinna Ralph Ekezie (born August 22, 1975) is a Nigerian former professional basketball player who played in the NBA and other leagues. His name, Obinna, means "Father's heart". He is a direct descendant of the 19th century Igbo warrior and businessman Duruike Akubugali, hence hails from Obor Autonomous Community in Orlu, Imo State.

Career Obinna Ekezie moved to the US when he was 18 years old to continue his education and play high school basketball at Worcester Academy in Massachusetts for two years (1993–1995). A 6'10" 270 lb center, Ekezie was selected with the 37th overall pick in the 1999 NBA draft by the Vancouver Grizzlies after playing with the Maryland Terrapins from 1995–1999. Obinna prepared for college at Worcester Academy, graduating in 1995.

Ekezie played for five NBA teams (1999–2005), and also professionally with Red Star Belgrade (Serbia), Lottomatica Roma (Italy), and Dynamo Moscow.

After retiring from basketball in 2007, Ekezie entered the travel industry. In 2008, he founded ZeepTravel, an online platform initially focused on hotel reservations and travel services between Africa and the United States. The company later expanded and was rebranded as Wakanow in 2010, co‑founded with Ralph Tamuno.

Personal life His son, Obinna Ekezie Jr., plays college basketball for the Louisville Cardinals.