{
  "id": 3202945,
  "title": "Jarred Vanderbilt might follow former Lakers teammates steps after Luka Doncic-led preseason trip",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/25/jarred-vanderbilt-might-follow-former-lakers-teammates-steps-after",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-25T06:12:16.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/jarred-vanderbilt-might-former-lakers-061216452.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Jarred Vanderbilt, a former teammate of Luka Doncic in the NBA, may be contemplating a significant career decision following the Lakers' preseason trip to Slovenia. Doncic invited his Lakers teammates to spend time in his native country, Slovenia, where the duo forged a bond during a memorable visit. Vanderbilt, who was recently interviewed about his experiences in Slovenia, has hinted at his intention to secure a Slovenian passport. This move could potentially position him to represent the Slovenian national team alongside Doncic, a route that Hayes opted for earlier this year. Vanderbilt's decision to pursue a Slovenian passport mirrors Hayes' actions, demonstrating the influence Doncic has had on his former teammates. Out of the three players who spent time in Slovenia, Hayes is the only one who has officially changed his nationality. Vanderbilt's move could be a strategic decision aimed at bolstering the Slovenian team, given his defensive prowess, which has been highlighted in the interview. If Vanderbilt follows suit and joins the Slovenian national team, it would be a clear indication of Doncic's efforts to recruit players who can contribute both offensively and defensively to the national team.",
  "summary": "Los Angeles Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt might consider a career-changing move after their recent trip to Slovenia to spend time with Luka Doncic. Doncic invited all his Lakers teammates for the 2026-27 season to his home country of Slovenia, getting to know the players on the massively adjusted roster before a new season.",
  "key_points": [
    "Vanderbilt may seek Slovenian passport after preseason trip.",
    "Hayes already changed nationality to play for Slovenia.",
    "Vanderbilt's move could bolster Slovenian team's defense."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Jarred Vanderbilt's potential pursuit of a Slovenian passport suggests he may follow Hayes' lead in representing the Slovenian national team, bolstering its lineup with his defensive skills alongside Luka Doncic.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}