LA Clippers Guard Norman Powell Commits to Representing Jamaica in FIBA World Cup Pre-Qualifiers
Los Angeles Clippers guard Norman Powell has announced his availability to represent Jamaica in the FIBA World Cup 2027 Americas Pre-Qualifiers from August 8–10, 2025. The 30-year-old NBA veteran shared the news in a social media video, voicing his commitment to helping Jamaica excel on the global basketball stage.
“I’m super excited to join Team Jamaica,” Powell stated. “Coach Turner and I have worked on this for a while, and now it’s a reality. I’m ready to grind and need everyone’s support to make it happen.”
Jamaica national team head coach Nick Turner played a key role in securing Powell’s FIBA eligibility. The Jamaica Basketball Association (JaBA) president, Paulton Gordon, celebrated the decision, highlighting Powell’s leadership and its impact on inspiring younger players.
Jamaica will compete against Costa Rica, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay, and the US Virgin Islands in the pre-qualifiers. Powell, a former NBA champion with the Toronto Raptors, leads a lineup of players of Jamaican descent targeted by JaBA, including Nick Richards (Phoenix Suns), Justin Champagnie (Washington Wizards), Julian Champagnie (San Antonio Spurs), Josh Minott (Minnesota Timberwolves), and the Thompson twins, Amen (Houston Rockets) and Ausar (Detroit Pistons).
While some players are finalizing FIBA eligibility, Powell’s involvement signals Jamaica’s determination to establish itself as a basketball powerhouse. Fans are optimistic this marks the beginning of a new era for Jamaican basketball as they prepare for the tournament. With Powell’s experience and enthusiasm, Jamaica’s dream of international basketball success is within reach.
