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3d ago

Report: Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes Pursuing Slovenian Citizenship to Join Luka Dončić on National Team

No governing body has confirmed the report.

Feb 22, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) is congratulated by center Jaxson Hayes (11) after making a basket during the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

Overview

  • BasketNews, as relayed by ClutchPoints, reports that Jaxson Hayes is completing paperwork to obtain Slovenian citizenship with the goal of playing international tournaments alongside Luka Dončić.
  • EssentiallySports says the process is in its final stages, reporting that Slovenia views Hayes as a long-term center option as it looks ahead to upcoming competition windows.
  • The development remains unconfirmed by Slovenia’s basketball federation or FIBA, with no official announcement cited in the coverage.
  • Hayes has expressed interest in competing internationally after doubting his chances with Team USA, and he previously criticized the U.S. selection process in remarks cited by EssentiallySports.
  • The 25-year-old, a 2019 top-10 pick and 2026 dunk contest participant, is averaging about 17.7 minutes for the Lakers, and his athletic, lob-threat profile is viewed as a fit with Dončić, with coach JJ Redick voicing support for the potential move.