A native of Sylmar, California, Gbewonyo began his high school basketball career at Kennedy High, setting the stage for his future accomplishments.
Gbewonyo's collegiate journey commenced at College of the Canyons in California, where he earned All-Western State Conference honors and was named the team's Most Valuable Player as a sophomore in the 2000-01 season. During that remarkable year, he averaged an impressive 21 points and eight rebounds per game.
Following two seasons at Canyons, Gbewonyo transferred to Washburn University in Kansas, where he became a part-time starter and a crucial component of the Ichabods' 2001-02 team. Over the course of 26 games, he started 14 and averaged 7.7 points and 4.0 rebounds, contributing to the team's advancement to the MIAA Tournament semifinals.
Gbewonyo's collegiate career came full circle when he moved to Henderson State University in Arkansas for his senior season in 2002-03. He played in 35 games, averaging 9.0 points and 6.0 rebounds, and helped the Reddies advance to the NCAA Division II South Region finals.
