Solomon Alabi: Court Vision
An in-depth look at the journey of a professional basketball player, from his formative years in Nigeria to his career highlights.
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Player Profile
Overview
Makafan Solomon Alabi, born March 21, 1988, is a Nigerian former professional basketball player. Standing at 7 feet 1 inch (2.16 m) and weighing 250 lbs (113 kg), he primarily played the Center position.
NBA Draft & Career Start
Alabi was selected by the Dallas Mavericks as the 50th overall pick in the 2010 NBA draft. He was subsequently traded to the Toronto Raptors, with whom he played two seasons. His professional journey also included stints in the NBA Development League (D-League) and internationally.
Collegiate Foundation
Prior to his professional career, Alabi played college basketball for the Florida State Seminoles from 2007 to 2010. He was recognized for his defensive prowess, earning two selections to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) All-Defensive team.
Early Life and Origins
Nigerian Roots
Solomon Alabi was raised in a village near Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. His father served as a retired police officer, and he is one of six children. His early athletic interests were diverse, including soccer, tennis, volleyball, and field hockey, before basketball captured his focus.
Path to the USA
At the age of 17, Alabi moved to the United States to pursue his education and basketball aspirations. He attended Montverde Academy in Montverde, Florida, under the coaching of Kevin Sutton. His performance there earned him an all-state recognition and contributed to the team's perfect 30-0 record during his senior year.
College Career
Florida State Seminoles
Alabi played college basketball for the Florida State Seminoles. Despite a freshman year injury that required a medical redshirt, he quickly established himself. As a redshirt freshman, he averaged 8.4 points per game and led the ACC in blocks with 2.1 per game, earning ACC All-Freshman Team honors.
Defensive Acclaim
During his sophomore season, Alabi ranked 26th nationally in blocked shots, averaging 2.39 per game, while increasing his scoring average to 11.7 points per game. His defensive capabilities were further recognized with selections to the ACC All-Defensive team in both his freshman and sophomore years (2008-09 and 2009-10).
NBA Declaration
Following his successful collegiate career, Alabi declared his eligibility for the 2010 NBA draft on April 23, 2010, signaling his intent to transition to professional basketball.
Professional Career
NBA Entry
Alabi's NBA journey began when he was drafted 50th overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2010 NBA draft. The rights were immediately traded to the Toronto Raptors. He signed his contract with the Raptors on July 8, 2010.
NBA & D-League Assignments
Throughout his tenure with the Raptors, Alabi experienced multiple assignments to the Erie BayHawks of the NBA D-League, interspersed with recalls to the main team. He also played for the Bakersfield Jam in the D-League during the 2011-12 season. His career-highs in an NBA game were recorded on April 26, 2012, against the New Jersey Nets, with 11 points, 19 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
International Stints
After his NBA opportunities, Alabi continued his professional career overseas. He played in Greece for Ikaros Kallitheas B.C., in Taiwan for the Yulon Dinos, in the Philippines for the Barako Bull Energy, and in Japan for the Toyotsu Fighting Eagles Nagoya and Fukushima Firebonds. He officially retired from professional basketball in 2018 to focus on his family.
National Team Representation
Junior National Team
Solomon Alabi represented Nigeria on the international stage. He was a starter for the Nigerian Junior National Team at the 2007 Nike All-American camp. He also played a key role in helping Nigeria qualify for the 2007 FIBA Under-19 World Championship.
Global Showcase
Alabi was selected for the prestigious 2007 Nike Hoop Summit, where he represented the World Select Team. In this global showcase, he demonstrated his talent by leading all participants in blocked shots, highlighting his defensive impact.
Career Statistics
NBA Regular Season
Alabi appeared in 26 NBA regular season games for the Toronto Raptors across two seasons (2010-11 and 2011-12). His averages included 7.0 minutes, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.5 points per game.
NBA G-League (D-League)
Alabi's D-League statistics showcase his development as a player, particularly in rebounding and shot-blocking.
Personal Life and Post-Career
Family and Relocation
Solomon Alabi is married and has two children. Since 2015, he and his family have resided in Seattle, Washington. He retired from professional basketball in 2018 to dedicate more time to his family.
Academic Achievement
Demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning, Alabi returned to Florida State University. He successfully completed his academic pursuits, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in interdisciplinary social science in 2020.
Transition to Real Estate
Following his basketball career and academic completion, Alabi transitioned into a new profession. Since 2020, he has been working as a licensed real estate agent in Seattle, applying his discipline and dedication to a new field.
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References
References
- Uzoh has triple-double as Raptors rout Nets
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Important Notice
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