Jaxson Hayes has officially completed the process to obtain Slovenian citizenship, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported on The Hoop Collective podcast.
The 25-year-old center, currently on a one-year, $3.4 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, becomes eligible to represent Slovenia alongside Luka Doncic.
Windhorst described Hayes’ decision as strategically significant, noting it could strengthen his ties with Doncic and potentially impact his NBA future.
Slovenia has previously incorporated naturalized big men such as Anthony Randolph, who helped the national team win EuroBasket gold in 2017, and Mike Tobey. Hayes could fill a similar role for the squad.
This season, Hayes has appeared in 45 games for the Lakers, averaging 6.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks in 17.7 minutes per contest. He has shot an efficient 77.2% from the field and contributed defensively with 1.4 rebounds on the offensive glass and 2.4 on the defensive end per game.
The move comes as Hayes seeks stability in Los Angeles, where the Lakers sit fifth in the Western Conference with a 33-21 record. His connection with Doncic could enhance on-court chemistry if Hayes continues with the franchise beyond this season.
Slovenian citizenship could also open opportunities for Hayes during international competitions, strengthening a national team that relies on top-tier talent and has a history of integrating NBA players into its roster.
Windhorst suggested Hayes’ decision may carry long-term implications, implying a possible contract extension with the Lakers while simultaneously positioning himself for international play.
The Lakers’ frontcourt rotation includes Deandre Ayton, Rui Hachimura, and Jarred Vanderbilt, giving Hayes a complementary role in limited minutes while providing defensive rim protection.
