How did Tosan Evbuomwan, a native of Newcastle, England, make his way to the NBA to join the Brooklyn Nets? Let’s explore his unlikely and inspiring journey from the city of Newcastle on the northern bank of the River Tyne in the U.K. to the courts of the NBA.
Tosan Evbuomwan’s Journey to the NBA
Tosan Evbuomwan was born and raised in Newcastle, England. Like many young athletes in the UK, he was drawn to the sporting life due to the opportunities it presented. Football was a natural choice, and he even earned a spot in the Newcastle United Youth Academy. In tandem with his efforts on the football pitch, Tosan also participated in rugby, cricket, and track, showcasing his versatile athletic abilities.
Transition to Basketball
Inspired by his Nigerian father’s passion for basketball, Tosan shifted his to the hoops at age 14. This new interest quickly turned into something approaching an obsession as Tosan began to make a name for himself at Royal Grammar School, Newcastle. His talent was undeniable, and he played a crucial role in establishing the school’s basketball team.
Tosan’s skills continued to flourish with the Newcastle Eagles U18 team and his skills became even more apparent during his time at The Deng Camp, an elite basketball camp run by former NBA player Luol Deng. His early performances caught the attention of American universities, setting the stage for his next big step.
College Career and Achievements

Tosan’s journey led him across the Atlantic to Princeton University, where he played from 2019 to 2023. His time at Princeton was marked by significant achievements, including being named the Ivy League Player of the Year in his junior year, a testament to his impact on the court.
In his senior year, Tosan played a pivotal role in guiding the Princeton Tigers to a Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Tournament, a rare and celebrated accomplishment for the team. His successful college career set the foundation for his professional aspirations.
Professional Basketball Career
Despite his college success, Tosan went undrafted in the 2023. However, this setback did not deter him. He joined the San Diego Clippers in the NBA G League, where he averaged 18.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. His impressive performance in the G League showcased his potential and determination to succeed at a higher level.
Before his time with the San Diego Clippers, Tosan played for the Motor City Cruise during the 2022-23 season, where he averaged 15.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. His consistent performance in the G League attracted professional attention and proved to be a crucial step in his professional journey.
NBA Experience
Tosan’s NBA journey began with appearances for the Detroit Pistons and Memphis Grizzlies during the 2022-23 season. He played in 17 games, starting in eight, and averaged 5.9 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. These experiences were invaluable, providing him with a taste of the NBA’s competitive environment.
Signing with the Brooklyn Nets

In a significant career milestone, Tosan signed a two-way contract with the Brooklyn Nets. This contract allows him to split his time between the Nets and their G League affiliate, providing him with opportunities to develop his skills further and make an impact in the NBA.
The signing was part of a strategic move by the Nets, who waived two-way guard/forward Jaylen Martin to make room for Tosan. With his height, versatility, and skillset, Tosan is expected to make a significant contribution to the team’s bench depth – a factor already reflected in adjusted NBA odds by FanDuel for Brooklyn’s upcoming games.
His ability to guard multiple positions could prove particularly valuable in tight matchups, making him a versatile addition to the Nets lineup.
The Rise of British Talent in the NBA
Tosan Evbuomwan’s journey is not just a personal achievement; it is also a source of inspiration for aspiring British basketball players. His success highlights the growing presence of UK talent in the NBA, a growing overseas contingent that is motivating young athletes to pursue basketball careers.
The popularity of the NBA in the UK is on the rise, with viewership on the NBA app increasing by 52% year-on-year. This surge in interest reflects the impact of players like Tosan, who serve as role models for the next generation.
Other Notable British NBA Players
Tosan joins the ranks of other notable British NBA players, such as OG Anunoby of the New York Knicks and Jeremy Sochan of the San Antonio Spurs. These players, along with Tosan, are paving the way for more British athletes to make their mark in the NBA.
The Power of Inspiration
well @Tosan_Evb is European so this move makes sense pic.twitter.com/LqlShlhPuT
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) January 15, 2025
Tosan Evbuomwan’s journey from Newcastle to the NBA is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and the growing influence of British players in basketball. His story inspires young athletes in the UK to dream big and pursue their passion for basketball, even if that dream takes them far from their native shores.