New York Knicks star duo Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart recently discussed the possibility of representing different national teams in FIBA competitions on the latest episode of the Roommates Show, which also featured Jose Alvarado of Puerto Rico and the Knicks.
Both Brunson and Hart previously represented Team USA at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, where they finished fourth. Because of that appearance, switching national teams would not be so easy.
During the conversation, Hart mentioned the possibility of playing for Germany.
Hart: "You know I'm part German? I might try to get my German citizenship to play for the national team."
Alvarado then turned the question toward Brunson.
Alvarado: "What are you [Brunson] going to do? You're going to let him play for Germany?"
Brunson: "If he wants to, yeah."
Brunson: "I don't know. I could play somewhere else."
Hart quickly suggested another option.
Hart: "You can play with Jamaica."
Hart: "They'll get it for him if he wants to play."
Alvarado: "Yeah, they would do anything to get him to play in that jersey. You [Brunson] think that would be good if you play?'
Brunson: "Yeah, I think it'd be alright."
Brunson: "He's 12.5% German."
Hart: "12.5% German."
The situation is different for Jamaica. In theory, Brunson could switch his representation and play for the Jamaica national team because the country meets the criteria under FIBA regulations.
A similar case recently emerged with Klay Thompson expressing interest in representing the Bahamas despite previously winning two gold medals with Team USA.
Jamaica's national program has seen a significant influx of talent over the past two years.
In addition, reports suggest that Jamaica has attempted to recruit several other NBA players, including Isaiah Stewart, Devin Vassell, and even Scottie Barnes.