Chukwu Returns to Division One, Commits to North Carolina Central
Garden City Community College mens basketball team played on the road vs Pratt Community College on Wednesday January 31, 2024 in Pratt, Kan. The Busters defeated the Beavers 98 - 76. Photo credits; Adam Shrimplin, Shrimplin Photography
Garden City, Kan. – Garden City’s starting center this last season will be back at the division one level in 2025.
Former Broncbuster Charles Chukwu announced that he will commit to North Carolina Central University for this coming fall. The Katy, Texas, native is one of seven sophomores that played at Garden City this last winter.
“I’m glad I was able to go JUCO and come out as a D1 player,” Chukwu said.
The sophomore broke through once gaining eligibility, starting all 28 games he appeared in. Chukwu averaged roughly nine points per game, shooting a team-best 67.7 percent.
Chukwu played his freshman season at Tulsa, but gave a lot more to his game at Garden City.
“I learned motor. That’s the main thing I took away from JUCO,” Chukwu said. “I felt that’s something I wasn’t good at when I came here. But, through my coaches, my teammates, they pushed me to play better.”
Chukwu was one of the most dominant shot-blockers in the NJCAA. The sophomore was tied for first for the most blocks in Kansas Jayhawk Conference play, finishing second in Region Six in blocks per game.
He finished in the top 20 of NJCAA in rejections.
Chukwu’s defense should provide an immediate upgrade for NC Central. NCCU averaged just 2.7 blocks as a team last campaign.
The Eagles finished second place in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference this last season, posting an 18-13 record under head coach LeVelle Moton.
“My decision was based off their winning culture over the years,” Chukwu explained. “I feel like [Moton is] consistent to what he brings every year.”
Moton had previously offered Chukwu during his time at Paetow High School. Chukwu said his goal at NCCU is to reach the NCAA Tournament with the Eagles.
