Rwandan-American youngster Nate Ament has declared for the 2026 NBA Draft. The 18-year-old is a highly rated forward who has been playing college basketball for the Tennessee Volunteers. Via his Instagram account, Ament made the announcement on Thursday, through a lengthy statement thanking the university and the fans for their support. ALSO READ: US basketball prospect Nate Ament launches signature sneaker inspired by Rwanda “I promise to always represent the Vols (Tennessee Volunteers) with the upmost pride,” he said. “This University means more to me than just basketball — to me it’s a place I call home. I might’ve only been here a year but I’ll remember this year for the rest of my life.” The 6’11” forward was one of the most prolific freshman players in the school’s history. Ament was named SEC Freshman of the Week six times, twice as many as any other player in program history, and his 584 points were the third-most ever by a Tennessee freshman. ALSO READ: IN PICTURES: NBA Prospect Nate Ament’s visit to Rwanda in pictures He finished second on the team in scoring, made field goals, made three-pointers, free-throw percentage, and blocked shots. He also set program freshman records for made free throws and free throw attempts, earning SEC All-Freshman Team and Second Team All-SEC honours. The first round of the NBA draft takes place on June 23. The draft lottery, scheduled for May 10, decides the order of the top 14 picks. Born to a Rwandan mother and an American father, the 2.06m athlete is praised for his versatility, smooth playing style, scoring ability, and elite defensive instincts. He visited Rwanda last year.
