Hawks select Zuby Ejiofor with 23rd pick, ending St. John’s first-round drought
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The Atlanta Hawks chose St. John’s forward Zuby Ejiofor with the No. 23 selection in the 2026 NBA Draft on Thursday night, giving the Red Storm their first first-round pick in several years.
Ejiofor is the highest St. John’s player taken since the program’s latest stretch without a first-rounder began. His selection also adds front-court depth to an Atlanta roster looking to climb the Eastern Conference standings.
The 6-foot-9 forward entered the draft after a strong collegiate season that put him on the radar of multiple NBA scouts. By taking him in the back half of the opening round, the Hawks secured a prospect expected to contribute on both ends of the floor.
Atlanta holds additional picks later in the draft, while St. John’s hopes Ejiofor’s selection helps boost the program’s profile on the recruiting trail.
Source: New York Post