Luka Doncic's greatness forcing players to switch nationalities

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic's gravitational pull extends beyond the basketball court, where defenders rush in hordes to try and stop him. Even his teammates are drawn to his greatness. 

Jaxson Hayes, an American by birth, is applying for Slovenian citizenship so he can play alongside Doncic in upcoming FIBA tournaments and thereby get closer to his Lakers teammate.

"That's my guy," Hayes said of Doncic, via Spectrum SportsNet. “We're working on getting me a Slovenian passport right now so I can play with him upcoming next summer. So yeah, that's my man."

Jaxson Hayes to play for Slovenia?

According to FIBA rules, athletes who obtain a foreign passport can represent a different country but are considered "naturalized" players. The governing body allows only one naturalized player with multiple citizenships per international roster. This specific rule permitted Joel Embiid to play for the United States at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Embiid, who had the option to represent Cameroon or France, chose to play for his adopted home, the USA, where he moved at the age of 16. 

Soon after Hayes' comments, which some assumed were tongue-in-cheek, the Basketball Association of Slovenia issued a statement confirming that it is seeking a naturalized player to start at center.

Slovenia confirms Jaxson Hayes' interest

A Slovenian media outlet issued the following statement via LeBron Wire.

"As we have already mentioned, the Basketball Association of Slovenia is looking at the possibility of a new naturalization of a basketball player in the center position. We are striving to secure a new naturalized player for a longer period of time, thereby ensuring the stability of the national team in the coming years. At this stage of the procedure, we understandably cannot yet talk about names or details. When all matters are finally agreed upon and the procedures are successfully completed, we will inform the public about this."

If Hayes obtains Slovenian citizenship, he could also secure a long-term spot with the Lakers, considering his growing bond with Luka Doncic. Entering the 2026-27 season, only three Lakers — Doncic, Jarred Vanderbilt and Jake LaRavia — are under guaranteed contracts, while Marcus Smart, Deandre Ayton, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, LeBron James and Gabe Vincent all can become free agents.