In recent years, several countries have resorted to the naturalization of NBA players to strengthen their national teams’ options in international competitions. The most striking case in recent tournaments was that of the Bahamas, who came close to qualifying for the last Olympic Games in Paris.
It was thanks to NBA players such as Buddy Hield (Warriors) and DeAndre Ayton (Blazers), both born in the Bahamas, who were joined by Eric Gordon (Sixers), after being naturalized Bahamian. With these players they came close to surprising Spain in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament last summer (86-78).
Following their example, Jamaica could incorporate several NBA players to increase their chances of improving in international competitions, according to journalist Daniel Blake of the Jamaica Observer.
Negotiates three nationalisations
Scottie Barnes (Toronto Raptors), Isaiah Stewart (Detroit Pistons) and Devin Vassell (San Antonio Spurs) are three of the players who, according to the same source, are in talks with the Jamaica Basketball Federation to negotiate their naturalisation and join their national team.
In addition, according to the same media outlet, twin brothers Amen Thompson (Rockets) and Ausar Thompson (Pistons) began the process of obtaining their respective passports last week, while Norman Powell (Clippers) and Josh Minott (Wolves), already with Jamaican passports, have confirmed their participation with Jamaica in the upcoming Americas Pre-Qualifiers for the 2027 World Cup.
Jamaica has never participated in a World Cup or Olympic Games. It did compete in the FIBA AmeriCup in 2013, when it defeated Brazil and Argentina, but failed to qualify for the second round.
Read the full article here
