Rapper J. Cole is set to play professional basketball for the Rwanda Patriots of the Basketball Africa League, according to an official with direct knowledge of the deal.
The official spoke to USA TODAY Sports on the condition of anonymity because it has not been announced yet.
The New Times in Rwanda first to report it.
The rapper will bring star power to the inaugural season of the Basketball Africa League, which is set to showcase 12 teams.
J. Cole’s signing with Rwanda is expected to become official Thursday. He arrived in Rwanda on Saturday and is in quarantine, according to The Undefeated.
The 36-year-old rapper’s original name is Jermaine Lamarr Cole. He had a standout high school career at Sanford High School (North Carolina) and was a walk-on at St. John’s men’s basketball team. He pivoted to his music career before ever playing in a Division I basketball game.
The Rwanda Patriots will tip off their season with a game on Sunday against the Nigeria River Hooper’s airing at 7 a.m. Sunday on ESPNEWS.
