Jared Vanderbilt considers obtaining Slovenian passport

Los Angeles Lakers forward Jared Vanderbilt has expressed interest in obtaining a Slovenian passport following a team trip to Slovenia. The trip, organized and funded by Luka Doncic, served as an informal mini-camp and team-building excursion for the Lakers ahead of the 2026-27 season.

During the visit, which included training sessions at the Stozice Arena and community activities such as visiting a local pediatric clinic, Vanderbilt remarked on his positive impression of the country. He stated, “I am looking to get a Slovenian passport. We will see. Maybe I am partly Slovenian,” suggesting the possibility of representing the Slovenian national team in the future.

This follows a precedent set by Jaxson Hayes, who has already gained eligibility to play for Slovenia. The Lakers' itinerary also included sightseeing in Ljubljana and Bled, featuring activities such as boating on the Ljubljanica River and golfing.