Jaxson Hayes is no longer just Luka Doncic’s lob threat in Los Angeles. The Lakers center has officially secured a Slovenian passport, meaning the two will be teammates on the international stage for the foreseeable future — regardless of what happens with the NBA roster down the line.
Hayes confirmed the move after a recent practice, following months of paperwork and coordination. The naturalization process was driven by agent Bill Duffy, who represents both players, and it fills a long-standing need for the Slovenian national team: an athletic, rim-running big man who can thrive in FIBA competition.
According to a report from Marc Stein, the passport has been finalized, allowing Hayes to suit up alongside Doncic for Slovenia in upcoming World Cup qualifying windows. The 25-year-old former lottery pick told reporters that Doncic has been calling him his “Slovenian brother” throughout the process.
Why Hayes Chose Slovenia Over Waiting on USA Basketball
Hayes didn’t exactly have a clear path to playing for the United States. USA Basketball operates on an invite-only basis, and Hayes felt overlooked. So instead of waiting around, he aggressively pursued another route. The Slovenian federation was eager to add a long-term frontcourt presence with elite vertical spacing and rim-running ability — exactly what Hayes brings.
“Luka’s been calling me his Slovenian brother every time,” Hayes joked, acknowledging that Doncic was a driving force behind the idea. Hayes also admitted he doesn’t speak Slovenian yet, but that hasn’t stopped him from embracing the opportunity.
Chemistry That Extends Beyond the NBA
Since Doncic arrived in Los Angeles via blockbuster trade, the two have been building on-court chemistry. Their pick-and-roll connection is already a key part of the Lakers’ offense. Now, with FIBA tournaments on the calendar, that partnership will get even more reps in high-stakes settings.
For Lakers fans, this is an exciting bonus. International competition often accelerates chemistry, and the Hayes-Doncic tandem will have a chance to refine their two-man game year-round. That continuity could pay dividends when the NBA playoffs roll around.
Slovenia is gearing up for the 2027 FIBA World Cup European qualification windows, and adding a player like Hayes — even if he’s still learning the language — gives them a dynamic weapon in the frontcourt. With Doncic feeding him lobs in international blue, the duo is set to become a staple for years to come.
No matter what future offseasons bring in the NBA, this connection is cemented. They’re teammates in Los Angeles. Now, they’re brothers representing Slovenia.
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