Ausar Thompson of the "Detroit Pistons" is pursuing Jamaican citizenship alongside his twin brother Amen Thompson from the "Houston Rockets," potentially setting up their future involvement with Jamaica's national basketball team.
"This process represents an exciting opportunity for both the Thompson twins and Jamaican basketball," – reports suggest, though no direct quotes from the players have been provided.
The Thompson brothers aren't alone in this endeavor. According to the Jamaica Observer, three additional NBA talents are considering the same path: Scottie Barnes of the "Toronto Raptors," Devin Vassell from the "San Antonio Spurs," and notably, "Pistons" center Isaiah Stewart.
Stewart, a New York native with clear Jamaican heritage, has been showcasing impressive defensive skills throughout the 2024-2025 NBA season. The 2020 draft pick (16th overall) has embraced his bench role under first-year Pistons coach JB Bickerstaff.
Interestingly, despite seeing reduced starting opportunities as Jalen Duren has claimed more minutes, Stewart has proven his worth as a defensive anchor for Detroit's second unit. His versatility to play at the power forward position adds significant value to both his NBA team and potentially the Jamaican national squad.
Barnes, a one-time All-Star whom the Pistons have faced ten times throughout his career, would bring established NBA stardom to the Jamaican team if he completes the citizenship process.
This development could significantly boost Jamaica's basketball program on the international stage. With five NBA-caliber players potentially joining their ranks, could Jamaica become a new force in international competitions?
The basketball world will certainly be watching this situation closely as these citizenship applications progress.
