BEVERLY HILLS, April 19, (THEWILL) – Spencer Dinwiddie, the Brooklyn Nets guard has confirmed moves to switch nationality and become eligible to play for Nigeria’s basketball team, D’Tigers at the Olympics in Japan next year and beyond.
Shams Charania of The Athletic was first to report the news after Dinwiddie was snubbed by the USA national basketball team for the Olympics. Team USA shortlisted 44 players.
“Sources: Nets‘ Spencer Dinwiddie is acquiring a Nigerian passport to play for the Nigeria national team. Dinwiddie didn’t receive Team USA Olympic invite; now joins Nigeria roster under Mike Brown that includes Al-Farouq Aminu, Josh Okogie, Chimezie Metu, Ekpe Udoh.” Shams tweeted.
After Charania reported the news on Saturday, Dinwiddie quickly confirmed the report by tweeting, “Well now y’all know lol”.
Dinwiddie will join several other NBA players on the Nigerian team, which is coached by Warriors assistant Coach, Mike Brown. Dinwiddie’s teammates will include Al-Farouq Aminu (Orlando Magic), Josh Okogie (Minnesota Timberwolves), Chimezie Metu (Spurs) and Ekpe Udoh (Beijing Bucks).
Nigeria has already clinched a spot in the Olympics by winning Group M at the FIBA World Championships.
Dinwiddie was having a career season before the NBA season was put on hold, averaging 20.6 points, 6.8 assists and 3.5 rebounds through 64 games.
*** NBA.com contributed to this report.
