NBA Star Bane Considers Joining Nigeria for the 2028 Olympics

Bane’s Ambition to Support Nigerian Basketball

Orlando Magic’s Desmond Bane has expressed his desire to contribute to Nigeria’s basketball team, D’Tigers, in their pursuit of success in the upcoming 2028 Olympics. He aims to rally fellow NBA players to support the team, highlighting the potential impact they could make together.

Bane, while recognized as an American in the NBA, holds Nigerian roots and has yet to compete for any national team internationally. Nigeria’s basketball team has a history of participation in the Olympics, making their debut in London 2012 and competing again in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. However, they missed the opportunity to qualify for the 2024 Paris Games.

Bane’s Commitment to the Cause

When asked if he would consider playing for Nigeria, Bane responded with enthusiasm. “Absolutely, I would,” he stated, underscoring the need for unity among Nigerian players to enhance their chances in future Olympic competitions.

Houston Rockets guard Josh Okogie, who has Nigerian heritage, is already a representative of the Nigerian national team. Bane mentioned that he has had discussions with other players about the prospect of joining him in supporting Nigeria.

“I’ve been in talks with Aaron Nesmith of the Indiana Pacers,” Bane explained. “Additionally, I’ve had conversations with Gabe Vincent from the Los Angeles Lakers. We need to act on this.”

Increasing Nigerian Representation in the NBA

Bane noted another two Nigerian NBA players, forwards Precious Achiuwa and Adem Bona, who play for the Sacramento Kings and Philadelphia 76ers, respectively. Despite their talent, Nigeria currently ranks 50th in the FIBA world rankings and has slipped to seventh among African nations, leaving their pathway to the 2028 Olympics uncertain.

Their next chance to secure a spot in the Olympics could arise during the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar. They would need to emerge as the top-ranked African nation out of a pool of five competing there. Presently, Nigeria is positioned third in their group, trailing behind Guinea and Tunisia.

Another qualification route will be through a separate Olympic qualifying tournament that includes six African nations, where the winner will earn a berth to Los Angeles.

Bane’s Recent Experience with the NBA Global Games

Bane recently participated in the NBA Global Games, competing in a double-header where the Orlando Magic faced the Memphis Grizzlies in Berlin and London. Discussing the growing global influence of basketball, NBA commissioner Adam Silver indicated the potential for establishing a new European league, alongside the ongoing Basketball Africa League, which has been operational since 2021 with NBA involvement.

Bane expressed admiration for the growing talent and influence in global basketball, saying, “It’s impressive. The conversation around NBA Europe and the recognition of talent from Nigeria showcases the vast potential worldwide.”

Related Topics

• Basketball
• Africa Sport
• Olympic Games