Tobi Akinkunmi leads on and off the court at UBC
For Tobi Akinkunmi, a captain of the University of British Columbia (UBC) Thunderbirds basketball team, creativity and adaptability have played a key role in his journey on and off the court.
Born in Houston, Texas, and raised in Calgary, Alberta, Akinkunmi has led a life shaped by new experiences. His family’s roots in Nigeria, coupled with time living in England and various parts of Canada, have helped give him a unique perspective.
“I’ve met so many people from different walks of life,” Akinkunmi said.
“It’s helped me build relationships and adapt in ways that I bring to basketball and leadership.”
Akinkunmi didn’t grow up with a basketball in his hands. A self-described “late bloomer,” his first love was soccer.
“I played striker until grade eight, but after a growth spurt shot me up from 5-foot-10 to 6-foot-3, soccer became difficult,” he said.
“So, I decided to give basketball a try.”
Though there were some challenges at first, he never gave up on big dreams.
“When I started playing, I wasn’t great,” Akinkunmi said.
“But setting outrageous goals, like dreaming of the NBA, pushed me to improve.”
By grade 11, his talent had begun to shine. Invited to a Team Canada camp, Akinkunmi gained confidence despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
“That camp showed me I could compete,” he said.
Soon after, UBC took notice, and his path to university basketball was set. Now in his final year as a psychology major, Akinkunmi is UBC’s team captain, a role he views as a platform for mentorship.
“Being a leader isn’t just about yelling at people; it’s about knowing how to approach them individually,” he said.
And he says studying psychology has been an asset for him on the court.
“Understanding people’s minds helps me in basketball,” he said.
Set to graduate this May, he credits his parents for instilling in him a strong work ethic. Next, Akinkunmi plans to pursue a master’s degree in management, aligning with his aspirations to one day run a business.
Still, Akinkunmi’s passion extends outside of his academics and basketball.
Akinkunmi is deeply interested in art, film, and photography. His room is adorned with posters of Kobe Bryant and Travis Scott, alongside a vintage film camera gifted by his father.
“Film and photography let me express myself creatively,” he said. “They’re hobbies I turn to when I need balance.”
For Akinkunmi, striking a balance between basketball and other passions is crucial.
“Basketball isn’t forever,” he said.
“I’ve seen people struggle with their identity when they stop playing. That’s why I’ve invested in hobbies like film and music. They remind me that there’s more to life.”
As UBC prepares to host the 2025 U SPORTS men’s and women’s basketball championships, Akinkunmi is excited about the home-court advantage.
“Sleeping in my own bed and knowing the gym gives us an edge,” he said.
“It’s going to be an electric atmosphere.”
Looking ahead, Akinkunmi defines success as living without regrets.
“I want to look back and be happy with my decisions,” he said.
“It’s about being proud of the life you’ve built.”
For young athletes, Akinkunmi has some simple advice:
“Be yourself. Work hard, own your weaknesses, and embrace your individuality. That’s what makes you great.”