On the night of the 2024 NBA Draft, history was made for Cameroon and African basketball as the New Orleans Pelicans selected Yves Missi in the first round. Born on May 14, 2004, Missi became the first African to be drafted in the first round this year and joined the ranks of Cameroonian basketball legends. He is set to become the 7th Cameroonian to ever play in the NBA and one of four active Cameroonian players currently in the league.
Yves Missi was born in Belgium but grew up in Cameroon, where he developed his love for basketball. His journey took a significant turn in 2021 when he moved to the United States to pursue his basketball dreams. He initially attended West Nottingham Academy in Maryland before transferring to Prolific Prep in Napa, California. At Prolific Prep, Missi showcased his talents, averaging 9.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. His impressive performance made him a highly sought-after recruit, and ESPN ranked him as the second-best player in California, the 13th-best player nationally, and the third-best center.
Missi’s prowess on the court earned him a spot at the prestigious Nike Hoop Summit in 2023, where he played against top international talent. He also played a pivotal role in leading Prolific Prep to victory in The Grind Session World Championship and secured a place at the GEICO High School Nationals. His performance in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) with the PSA Cardinals was equally impressive, averaging 12.7 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game.
Recognizing his potential, Missi committed to playing college basketball for the Baylor Bears and reclassified to join them for the 2023-24 season.
Missi’s selection in the first round of the NBA Draft is a monumental achievement for Cameroon and serves as an inspiration for young Cameroonians aspiring to make it to the NBA. Following in the footsteps of Joel Embiid, who won the NBA MVP award, and Pascal Siakam, who became an NBA champion, Missi has the potential to become a significant figure in the league. His success story reinforces the message that with talent, dedication, and hard work, young athletes from Cameroon can achieve their dreams on the global stage.
As Yves Missi embarks on his NBA career with the New Orleans Pelicans, the big question is whether he will live up to the high expectations. Will he become an MVP like Joel Embiid or an NBA champion like Pascal Siakam? The answer lies in his development and the support he receives from the Pelicans’ coaching staff.
Missi’s addition to the Pelicans addresses a long-term need for a dominant center. His defensive prowess, rebounding skills, and ability to score in the paint make him a valuable asset. However, for him to reach his full potential, the Pelicans must invest in his development and provide him with the necessary resources and opportunities to grow.
Yves Missi’s journey from Cameroon to the NBA is a testament to his hard work, determination, and talent. As he steps onto the court for the New Orleans Pelicans, he carries the hopes and dreams of many young Cameroonians. His success will not only be a personal achievement but also a beacon of inspiration for future generations of African basketball players. Whether he becomes an MVP, an NBA champion, or a key player for the Pelicans, one thing is certain: Yves Missi is a name to watch in the coming years.