The Jamaican national basketball team is making a bold push toward Olympic qualification, assembling a star-studded roster featuring several NBA talents. With the goal of competing in the 2028 Olympics, Jamaica is actively recruiting players with Jamaican heritage, including Scottie Barnes, Isaiah Stewart, Devin Vassell, and the Thompson twins—Amen and Ausar.
According to reports, the Jamaica Basketball Federation has been in discussions with multiple NBA players who could transform the national team into a legitimate contender. The Thompson twins have already begun the passport process, signaling their commitment to representing their roots.
The Jamaican national basketball team are preparing an ELITE SQUAD in the hopes of qualifying for their first Olympics 🇯🇲
Talks are underway with Scottie Barnes, Isaiah Stewart and Devin Vassell, while Amen and Ausar Thompson have begun their passport process.
(via Daniel Blake… pic.twitter.com/taNkvBZ3uT
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) June 10, 2025
Additionally, Norman Powell, a veteran guard for the Los Angeles Clippers, has officially pledged to play for Jamaica. Powell expressed his excitement, stating,
“I’m super excited to join Team Jamaica. Coach Turner and I have worked on this for a while, and now it’s a reality. I’m ready to grind and need everyone’s support to make it happen.”
While Jamaica has produced NBA legends like Patrick Ewing and Roy Hibbert, the country has never qualified for the Olympic basketball tournament. However, with the influx of NBA talent, the national team is poised to make a historic breakthrough.
The Jamaica Basketball Association is working closely with FIBA to ensure eligibility for players who did not acquire passports before age 16. The federation is also securing funding and logistical support, with backing from the Bob and Rita Marley Foundation.
Jamaica will first compete in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Americas Pre-Qualifiers, facing teams like Costa Rica, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay, and the US Virgin Islands. Advancing to the next stage would bring high-level basketball to Jamaica, offering fans a chance to rally behind their team.
With a mix of young stars and veteran leadership, Jamaica’s squad could soon be one of the most exciting teams in international basketball. If all goes according to plan, the island nation may finally secure its place on the Olympic stage.
