Narcisse Ngoy, a center selected by the Los Angeles Clippers with the 57th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, announced Thursday that he will return to Auburn University for the 2026-27 college basketball season. Ngoy revealed his decision on social media, stating his intention to honor his commitment to Auburn.
"I am thankful for the LA Clippers’ confidence in me," Ngoy wrote on his Instagram story. "I fully intend to honor my commitment to Auburn University, and I am looking forward to wearing the Auburn Tigers jersey for the 2026-27 season."
Ngoy had committed to Auburn in March and had not formally entered the NBA Draft process. However, new NCAA guidelines allow international players over the age of 22 to be automatically included in the draft pool while retaining their college eligibility.
The Clippers acquired the 57th pick, which became Ngoy, from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Henri Veesaar and cash considerations. The Clippers had previously selected Keaton Wagler with the fifth overall pick in the draft. The team has explored what is sometimes referred to as a 'draft and stash' approach, where a team retains a player's rights while they play elsewhere, typically overseas. However, Ngoy's situation is different, as he plans to continue his development in college for his remaining two years of eligibility before potentially joining the NBA in a Clippers uniform.