CJ Okpalobi signs with Nicholls State

CJ Okpalobi signs with Nicholls State
By: Akilah Laster

Chuka Okpalobi Jr. (CJ), the first to represent Team Dibia Football, recently signed with Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana. It was a celebratory moment for the Dibia athletic family, but a true mark of the legacy that CJ hopes to continue.

A New Orleans native, but displaced to Baton Rouge after Hurricane Katrina, CJ has developed into a leader for his St. Michaels High School team, playing on both sides of the field.

“I’m able to lead the team during tough times and able to handle adversity,” said CJ, who plays running back and corner back. “I love to motivate people to give 100 percent every play of the game.”

Motivated by the facetious naysay of others, CJ said that he has learned a great deal from watching other athletes who have taken the wrong path.

“The people I see on TV who throw away their talents by doing the wrong things or being at the wrong place at the wrong time helps me to make sure I stay focus on what’s important in life and with football,” CJ said.

He also said that he has learned to deal with the criticism that comes with being an athlete.

“I take it personal to make me a better player and person and to also grow tougher skin.”

Several aspects of his life help CJ stay encouraged, including his Nigerian culture.

“Both of my parents are from Nigeria and they don’t tolerate nonsense,” CJ said laughingly. “They have taught me to finish what I’ve started and to never give up.”

“The culture has also taught me that every day is a blessing and if you sit around and don’t get anything accomplished then it’s a wasted blessing,” he added.

CJ’s ability to maximize his football talent attracted offers from Grambling State, Northwestern, and several other universities. But it was Nicholls State that provided the perfect formula.

“I felt so comfortable in that environment,” CJ said. “I liked the facilities and the coaches and the way they coach and stress the student athlete part. It is not that far from home either, so that’s great.”

Now CJ says he is just taking everything in and enjoying the remainder of high school.

“I feel so blessed just to be able to say that I’m a college athlete,” CJ said. “Not many people can say that.”