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The Los Angeles Lakers player D’Angelo Russell could soon land in the Old Continent, more precisely in Lithuania. Not as a player for club teams, but as a representative of Lithuanian national team in FIBA tournamentswith the final objective of participating in the next ones Olympics of Los Angeles in 2028.
D’Angelo Russell seems serious about acquiring Lithuanian citizenship and then declaring himself available to play for the Baltic selection in FIBA competitions, including possible participation in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. According to what was reported by journalist Rokas Pakenas of 15min and confirmed by Basket NewsIndeed, iThe Los Angeles Lakers player expressed his opinion interest to play in FIBA tournaments with the Lithuanian national team.
Russell could obtain citizenship thanks to his partner Laura Ivaniukaswith whom he had two children, who is originally from Lithuania and would allow him to obtain Lithuanian citizenship. According to what Pakenas reported, “The Lithuanian federation is aware of the player and his connection to Lithuania, but the formal citizenship procedures have not yet started”.
At the moment the “naturalized” of Lithuania is Ignas Brazeikisbut considering that there is still a long time to go before Los Angeles, the situation could change. In recent months, the president of the Lithuanian federation Nauseda has also softened his intransigent position on the naturalization issue: “If the emotional connection between the player and Lithuania exists, then I am for it. The world is moving in that direction, it’s much more accepted than it was 10 or 20 years ago. But I would never do it in a fake way.”.
Russell’s comment via social media was inevitable, as he commented under a post on Teknik Faul’s Instagram by writing only “Let’s make it happen”thus confirming his desire to play for Lithuania in the future.
Commentary by Andrea Trinchieri and Lonnie Walker IV
Andrea Trinchieri, coach of Zalgiris Kaunascommented on the story saying: “It took me by surprise, but if D’Angelo said it, I’m happy for him and also for the national team if they want to move forward. But it’s a political issue, I don’t want to get into it.”.
Also Lonnie Walker IVfresh from arriving at Zalgiris as well Russell’s former teammate at the Lakershad his say: “I’ll definitely send him a couple of texts to let him know that the vibe here is crazy. Maybe I can influence him a little. He is a great player but above all an excellent teammate. When I decided game 4 against the Warriors in the playoffs he was the first to tell me ‘This is your fourth’ before it even started. It gave me confidence and energy. It’s not selfish at all, and it’s not something to take for granted.”.
* What are the potential long-term implications, both positive and negative, of Lithuania actively pursuing “naturalized” players for its national team, in terms of player development and national identity?
## Interview: D’Angelo Russell and Lithuanian Basketball
**Introduction**
Welcome to World Today News! Today, we’re diving into the exciting possibility of NBA star D’Angelo Russell representing Lithuania on the international basketball stage. Joining us are [Guest 1 Name], a basketball analyst with expertise in international competitions, and [Guest 2 Name], a sports journalist familiar with Lithuanian basketball.
**Section 1: Russell’s Interest and Eligibility**
* **[Host to Guest 1]:** D’Angelo Russell potentially playing for Lithuania is a surprising development. What factors might be driving his interest in representing a country other than his own?
* **[Host to Guest 2]:** Can you shed light on the process of acquiring Lithuanian citizenship through familial ties? How smooth or complex could this be for Russell?
**Section 2: Lithuanian Basketball and the “Naturalized” Player Debate**
* **[Host to Guest 1]:** Lithuania has a rich basketball history. How significant would Russell’s potential addition be for the national team, both on and off the court?
* **[Host to Guest 2]:** The Lithuanian basketball federation has expressed a willingness to consider “naturalized” players. What are the arguments for and against this practise in international sport?
**Section 3: Implications for the 2028 Olympics and Beyond**
* **[Host to both Guests]:** With the Olympics being a key goal, how realistic is Russell’s timeline for gaining eligibility and competing in Los Angeles 2028?
* **[Host to Guest 1]:** What impact could Russell’s presence have on Lithuania’s chances in future FIBA tournaments and potentially the Olympics?
**Section 4: Reactions and Perspectives**
* **[Host to Guest 2]:** Coaches like Andrea Trinchieri have expressed surprise but support for Russell’s interest. How widespread is this sentiment within the Lithuanian basketball community?
* **[Host to both Guests]:** Lonnie Walker IV, Russell’s former teammate, highlighted his positive teammate qualities. How might Russell’s personality and leadership style fit within the Lithuanian national team environment?
**Conclusion**
[Host] Thank you both for sharing your insightful perspectives on this intriguing basketball story. It will be fascinating to see how this situation unfolds in the coming months and years.
**Note:**
This framework provides a starting point for the interview. Feel free to adapt the questions based on the specific expertise of your guests and the flow of the conversation.
