Recently, despite not making the cut for Team USA’s FIBA World Cup squad, Kyle Anderson is still wanting to be actively involved in international basketball. The player still plays for the Timberwolves in the NBA, performing pretty well in the last season for them, and had been an asset to the team.
With the FIBA World Cup kicking place on August 25, 2023, Kyle Anderson recently shared an image on the internet, showing that he has become a Chinese National.
Kyle Anderson obtains Chinese nationality
Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kyle Anderson recently made news by becoming the first athlete in history to become a naturalized citizen of China. His maternal grandmother was born in Jamaica to a Chinese father and a Jamaican woman; therefore, he likely has Chinese ancestry. Anderson verified the news with Yao Ming, chairman of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), to celebrate the event.
🇨🇳Kyle Anderson on his Weibo:
"Hello, fans in China. This is Li Kaier. I'm so happy to announce that I would be representing China in the World Cup."
"(I'm) Really proud and honored to wear the Team China jersey."#NBA #Timberwolves @el_baloncesto @hoopnut @AIIThingsWolves pic.twitter.com/2LOEVDOtIh
— CGTN Sports Scene (@CGTNSportsScene) July 24, 2023
In 2018, Anderson’s family embarked on a journey to trace their roots in China, discovering his connection to Xinmu New Village in Longgang, Shenzhen. This led to him being bestowed with the Chinese name Li Kaier.
The Olympic Games in Paris next year, and the FIBA World Cup, which begins on August 25 in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia, are just two of the many prominent competitions in which the 29-year-old may now compete on behalf of China.
Now named Li Kaier eligible to represent China in FIBA WC
Now named Li Kaier, the Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kyle Anderson has confirmed his eligibility to represent China in the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 after officially obtaining Chinese citizenship. Anderson expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to wear the Team China jersey, addressing the Chinese fans with enthusiasm.
While China’s naturalization rules are quite strict, Anderson meets the criteria due to his unique Chinese heritage. With FIBA’s new rule allowing teams to include one naturalized player on their roster, talented players like Anderson now get a chance to show off their skills on a global scale.
Anderson brings a lot of talent to Team China, having impressive performances and experience in the NBA. Last season, he averaged 9.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game in 69 appearances for the Timberwolves. As Li Kaier, he now eagerly awaits the opportunity to proudly represent China on the global stage at the FIBA World Cup.
What are your thoughts on Kyle’s decision? Make sure to let us know in the comments section.
