Combo image showing (from left) Scottie Barnes of the Toronto Raptors, Devin Vassell of the San Antonio Spurs and Isaiah Stewart of the Detroit Pistons.
June 4, 2025
The Jamaica Observer has been informed that preliminary talks are underway for NBA stars Scottie Barnes, Isaiah Stewart and Devin Vassell to join Jamaica’s national team.
It continues the recruitment drive by the Jamaica Basketball Association (JABA) to lure players with Jamaican roots to the local programme.
Toronto Raptors All-Star Barnes, Detroit Pistons big man Isaiah Stewart and San Antonio Spurs guard Vassell all qualify to represent Jamaica through their respective fathers.
JABA President Paulton Gordon says he’s optimistic that the three will strongly consider joining the team in the future as they seek to be a force in FIBA competitions and qualify for the Olympics for the first time.
Los Angeles Clippers star Norman Powell and Minnesota Timberwolves guard Josh Minott have already committed to Jamaica and will play in the FIBA World Cup Americas Pre-Qualifiers in August.
Twin brothers Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets and Ausar Thompson of the Detroit Pistons have stated their willingness to represent Jamaica and have begun the process of acquiring Jamaican passports.
– Daniel Blake