Naz Long, #7-Ranked Prospect in the Country Commits to Iowa State, Melvin Ejim Plays Big Role

MISSISSAUGA,ON–Father Goetz, Montrose Christian, Findlay Prep, REDA, St. Martin.

Naz Long the NPH #7-ranked prospect in the country has bounced around quite a bit in his high school career and has evolved as a player by doing so.

Now, he finds yet another new home after making his commitment to Iowa State, to join fellow Canadian and CIA BOUNCE Alumni, Melvin Ejim.

“Melvin played a big role…he showed me around and really acted like a brother while I was there and I’ve been watching Melvin play since I was 14,” Long tells NPH.

“I know how he plays and me getting him the ball is just going to work out, can’t wait for the duo.”

Long is coming off a spectacular AAU run with CIA BOUNCE in the summer, where he had some very big moments including several clutch performances in the EYBL, in front of over 50 NCAA coaches.

Yes, Naz Long has come back home for his senior year, after a season with American powerhouse Findlay Prep, but NO, he has not taking his foot off the pedal despite what some may think.

“Working hard is in my blood and just because I’m not away does not mean I’m not in the gym everyday!”

The 6’4 lead guard is currently attending St Martin Secondary school in Mississauga, while also playing for REDA’s post-grad squad in the NPSAA (National Prep School Athletic Asociation).

He took his official visit to Rice university last weekend, where fellow Canadian Dylan Ennis resides, and is on his way back to Canada fresh off his Iowa State commitment, ready to get back to business!

Other schools that were agressively in the hunt for this standout PG included Missouri, Dayton, Rice and Western Kentucky.

Now, Long will be in his comfort zone with a good friend in Ejim.

Afterall, Long holds his family values close to his chest, which is also a primary factor of why he left Findlay, to come back home.

“Im a huge family guy, family is everything and because I get to be around my family, it kind of reminds me what I’m doing school and basketball for…for them. So being around them means a lot,” he explained.

“I just felt like with this being my last year, why not spend it home and still do what I gotta do before I’m gone for four years.” 

Long finishes his senior year in Canada, after living in the scorching Las Vegas weather, playing for Findlay Prep.

This stud has played alongside multiple high-major talent including Myck Kabongo (Texas), Anthony Bennett, Nick Johnson (Arizona), and several others.

“…and again, the weather is a big transition,” he laughed. “But I’m built for this, I got that Canadian blood.”

Despite the climate switch, Naz Long remains to be one of the hottest Canadians on the scene, and continues to prepare for his Iowa State Debut.

The Cyclones are extremely fortunate to receive a rock solid point guard; a leader, hard worker, and an overall very intelligent and polite young individual!