American Basketball Player Joins Iraqi Team Owned by Paramilitary Group

The Iraqi Basketball Super League has been making headlines for its unique ownership and roster composition. A pro basketball team in Baghdad, owned by a paramilitary group, Hashed al-Shaabi, has recently signed American player Uchenna Iroegbu to help lead them to a championship.

Iroegbu, a former standout in Qatar’s league, brings his scoring prowess to the team, despite the political tensions surrounding the ownership group’s past attacks on U.S. troops. The 27-year-old point guard remains focused on basketball, steering clear of political discussions.

Playing alongside two other American teammates, Iroegbu navigates the challenges of language barriers and cultural differences, relying on the universal language of basketball to communicate on the court.

The team, like all others in Iraq, is state-owned and sponsored by various government ministries. Despite the political affiliations of the team’s ownership, coach Akil Najem emphasizes that the players are focused solely on basketball and not involved in political matters.

American players in Iraq earn competitive salaries, with Iroegbu and his teammates receiving tax-free income and free housing. The influx of American talent in Iraqi basketball began after the withdrawal of U.S. troops in 2011, with more than 20 Americans currently playing in the league.

Despite occasional setbacks like a recent bout of food poisoning that sidelined the American players, the team remains determined to compete at a high level. With the support of their Iraqi teammates and fans, the international players, including Iroegbu, are eager to make their mark on the league and help elevate their team to national and regional success.