Chigozie Umeadi

Hometown: Bensenville, IL

Current Location: Chicago, IL

Tell us about your personal and professional journey.

Playing basketball at UIS through 2012 laid the foundation for my career. Being a student-athlete, along with earning my dual degree in Business Administration and Business Management, gave me the discipline and confidence to pursue a path in professional basketball. UIS helped make that goal feel attainable.

In early 2013, at 22 years old, I moved to New York to work in Basketball Operations at the NBA League Office. It was my first time living outside the Midwest, and the transition challenged me in the best way. Professionally, I learned from some of the brightest minds in the game and gained a deeper understanding of how the NBA operates at the highest level. That experience shaped how I approach preparation, collaboration, and leadership.

In 2020, I returned to Chicago to join the Bulls. Moving to the team side allowed me to apply everything I had learned, from scouting and talent evaluation to relationship-building across the league. It’s been incredibly rewarding to contribute to building a team within such a historic organization.

On a personal level, being back home has meant just as much. My wife is from Chicago, and raising our daughter surrounded by family and close friends has been a true blessing.

Each chapter, UIS, New York, and Chicago has helped shape who I am, both professionally and personally, and I’m grateful for the journey that’s led me here.

Who or what has played a significant role in influencing or mentoring you?

Both my cousin and former UIS men's basketball player, Richard Oruche as well as my college roommate, Justin Rose played a significant role in me being able to be where I am today. Their influence when I arrived in Springfield helped me understand what it took to excel on and off the floor.

What accomplishments or contributions are you most proud of—professionally or personally?

Personally, being able to be a husband and father has by far been my best accomplishment. Professionally, being able to come back home and work for my hometown team. it does not happen much within the NBA so to be able to do while being around friends and family means the world to me.

What goals, projects, or aspirations are you excited about for the future?

My biggest aspiration and goal is to help underprivileged individuals realize that they can have a career in sports. Many people are unaware that these opportunities exist and are attainable, and I hope to help them understand that these paths exist and are within reach.

What advice would you share with other emerging professionals who want to make an impact in their field or community?

Patience and persistence is key! Things don't happen over night and giving yourself the time and permission to fail is key.

Outside of work, what activities, interests, or passions keep you inspired and grounded?

My family. My wife Jessica, daughter Evie and my parents and siblings keep me inspired. My best friends (which comprise of all friends I met at UIS) keeps my humble. Justin Rose, Michael Fakuade, Keith Smith, Jermaine Love and Tashawn Webber help me stay humble and always have!