D’Angelo Russell has announced his desire to represent Lithuania on the international stage, with a potential debut aimed at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Lithuanian Basketball Federation Denies Speculation
While the 2024-25 season is off to a flying start in the NBA, the former #2 pick from the 2015 Draft looks over the Atlantic. NBA star D’Angelo Russell wants to play for Lithuania’s national team.
The Lithuanian Basketball Federation (LKF) addressed rumors about Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell joining the national team. While Russell expressed interest in social media, the LKF clarified that it has not taken any action to explore this possibility.
Kleiza Plans Meeting with Russell
Linas Kleiza, managing director of the Lithuanian national team, intends to meet with Russell in early 2025 to discuss his potential involvement. “D’Angelo Russell’s interest in playing for Lithuania brings us great honor,” said Kleiza. “However, acquiring citizenship as a foreign player requires a complex process, and no actions have been taken so far.”
Kleiza also wants Russell to visit Lithuania to experience its rich basketball history and culture firsthand.
Lithuania Citizenship Requirements Create Challenges
Lithuanian law allows exceptions for foreigners seeking citizenship, but the President of Lithuania must approve such cases. The national team currently includes Ignas Brazdeikis as its naturalized player, which limits opportunities for adding another.
The LKF emphasized that it has not contacted Russell or started any legal process regarding his potential citizenship. “Media reports suggesting otherwise lack any basis,” as written in the statement by the Lithuanian Basketball Federation.
D’Angelo’s Connection to Lithuania
Russell shares a personal connection to Lithuania through his partner, Laura Ivaniukas, who has a Lithuanian heritage. Matas Buzelis, a Chicago Bulls draftee, added to the conversation when his family recently raised the idea of Russell’s involvement during a meeting with Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda.
Kleiza’s upcoming meeting with Russell will determine if his interest could evolve into a more concrete possibility. For now, the idea remains only a topic of discussion.
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