NBA’s Thompson twins acquiring Jamaican citizenship, could represent island
The Jamaica Observer understands that NBA stars and twin brothers Amen and Ausar Thompson could represent Jamaica in international competitions in the future.
Amen, who was named in the All-Defensive First Team after a standout season with the Houston Rockets, and Ausar, who helped the Detroit Pistons to their first playoff appearance in six years, have begun the process of acquiring Jamaican citizenship.
The duo, though born in the USA, qualify to represent Jamaica through their father. If successful, which the Observer understands is a formality, then they could turn out in FIBA competitions and possibly the Olympics if Jamaica qualifies.
It would be a significant boost for the Jamaican basketball programme after securing the commitment of Los Angeles Clippers star Norman Powell.
The Thompson twins, both 22 years old, are set to be involved in a meet and greet on Sunday in Kingston arranged by the Jamaica Basketball Association and the Bob Marley Foundation.
-Daniel Blake