Rutgers University Athletics

Emmanuel Ogbole, a 6-foot-10, 270-pound center from Aune-Adoka, Nigeria, returns to the Scarlet Knights for the 2025-26 season. Known for his size and raw athleticism, Ogbole has worked hard in the offseason and is excited to be one of the four returning players on this years roster.

Ogbole is entering his third year at Rutgers and earned his undergraduate degree last spring, where he was a member of the 2024-25 Winter Academic All-Big Ten Team.

2024-25 Season:

• Played in 23 games, starting 15 games at center, averaging 3.1 points and 3.7 rebounds in 13.0 minutes per game
• Scored 10 points at Kennesaw State (Nov. 24)
• Posted nine points against No. 9 Alabama (Nov. 27).
• Had 10 points and five rebounds at Ohio State (Dec. 7)
• Collected 11 rebounds in win at Nebraska (Jan. 16)

2023-24 Season:

• Played in 10 games, averaging 8.1 minutes per game with 2.1 points and 2.0 rebounds.
• Made his season debut on February 3, contributing three rebounds and a point in a win at Michigan.
• Had notable performances against top teams - No. 3 Purdue, Maryland, and Wisconsin.

• Attended Excel Model Secondary School in Nigeria before moving to the United States.
• Dominated in junior college at Monroe College during the 2022-23 season, averaging 12.3 points and 8.2 rebounds per game while shooting 69.3% from the field, ranking sixth nationally in junior college.
• A key contributor to Monroe’s successful campaign, leading the Mustangs to a 28-4 record and the East District Championship.
• Excelled defensively, averaging 2.0 blocks per game and recording 49 total blocks during the season.

• Has worked hard to shred down to just 6 percent body fat.
• Outside of basketball, he enjoys lifting weights, hanging with friends, and listening to music.
• Emmanuel takes pride in being a great locker room presence and connecting with his teammates.

• “Emmanuel is built like a house, he is 285 pounds of buffalo, and he is physical and strong and athletic. His vertical is as high as any player we’ve ever had in the program. He runs like a deer, and he’s really coachable. He’s way more physical than any big guy we’ve had. He likes to set screens, he likes to post up, and I think our guards have done a really good job of being able to get him the basketball where he can score, too.” 

• “I bring lots of energy and momentum. I block shots, play defense, put the ball in the hoop. We’re going to have fun and I’m really excited to get this going. I’m cheerful, try to have fun out there, and just be myself.”