Raptors forward Scottie Barnes, Pistons big man Isaiah Stewart and Spurs guard/forward Devin Vassell are in discussions to join Jamaica’s men’s basketball team, reports Daniel Blake of The Jamaica Observer (Twitter link).
Clippers wing Norman Powell has already committed to represent Jamaica during the pre-qualifiers for the 2027 FIBA World Cup this summer, as has Timberwolves forward Josh Minott, according to Blake (Twitter link).
Rockets wing Amen Thompson and Pistons wing Ausar Thompson may also represent Jamaica in FIBA competitions and possibly the Summer Olympics. Blake hears the Thompson twins began the process of applying for Jamaican passports last week — their father is from Jamaica.
Blake previously mentioned Suns center Nick Richards, who was born in Kingston, Jamaica, as another candidate to join the national team.
If Jamaica is able to secure the commitments of all the aforementioned NBA players, the country would become a formidable opponent in international competitions. Former Rookie of the Year and All-Star Barnes is the most accomplished of the group, and all but Minott have established themselves as at least solid rotation players in the NBA.
Only 1 naturalized citizen can compete at a time in FIBA games. The only guy in this article who is not/would not be naturalized in Nick Richards. So I don’t think most will never wear a Jamaican jersey unfortunately.
You sound afraid.
Nick Richards is stamped already. He should be the starting 5 & 1 of the team leaders along with Norm no doubt. Caribbean nations as a whole are coming up big time in basketball. Carlos Arroyo deserves a lot of the credit for that imo.
Right now in Juarez at the FIBA U16 AmeriCup squads like Dominican Republic & Puerto Rico both playing extremely well & showing how bright the futures are for basketball in the Caribbean. Tbh most of Canada’s top basketball talent all have immediate Jamaican/Bahamian ancestry as well. I’m sure Wiggins & Shai do.
Norman Vassell Ausar Scottie Richards
Amen Minnot Stewart
That’s a good side
Would love to see it …….. Ya man .