Former Normal West star Okoro awaiting chance to suit up for Billikens
NORMAL, Ill. (BVM) — Francis Okoro’s talent on the basketball court has been evident for quite some time, and it certainly was on full display during his time at Normal West High School.
Okoro has a unique story compared to most who play at Normal West, as he grew up in Nigeria and only came to the United States prior to high school.
But the basketball standout would open eyes during his high school career. Impressively, he averaged nearly 16 points and 12 rebounds per game as a senior, and became a consensus four-star recruit.
Okoro’s journey would take him to the University of Oregon, where he decided to go out west to join Dana Altman’s squad. Okoro would play in 37 games as a freshman while starting 22 of those contests. Although a bit raw on the offensive side of the ball, he was a force down low that helped the Ducks to a Sweet Sixteen appearance.
His numbers would remain consistent through his sophomore season. However, tragedy would strike that year when Okoro’s father passed away. After going back to Nigeria for his father’s memorial service, Okoro would inspire in his first game back on the hardwood with a 12-point, 17-rebound performance.
Overall, Okoro played in 66 games for the Ducks. But now, he will be trading in the green in yellow for the blue and white of the Saint Louis Billikens.
Due to NCAA regulations, Okoro had to sit out the 2020-21 basketball season. But as soon as he is eligible to suit up next year, he will bring valuable experience to a talented Saint Louis squad.
Okoro could end up being one of the top big men in the Atlantic-10 and even the country, and perhaps will lead the Billikens to the NCAA Tournament once again after missing out on the big dance this year.
