Overview
- After a preseason game versus the Mavericks, Hayes said he is working on obtaining a Slovenian passport to join Dončić on Slovenia’s national team next summer.
- The Slovenian Basketball Federation said it is exploring adding a naturalized center for long-term stability but has not disclosed any names or decisions.
- Under FIBA rules, only one naturalized player can be on a national team roster per game, and reporter Marc Stein noted Hayes would fill that slot if approved.
- If clearance is granted, Hayes could be eligible for the 2027 FIBA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, though procedures and verification remain pending.
- Hayes logged 12 points and 10 rebounds against Dallas in the preseason, and his passport pursuit comes during a contract year with Deandre Ayton now ahead of him at center.