NBA star Kyle Anderson obtains Chinese citizenship, will join national team ahead of Fiba World Cup
- Minnesota Timberwolves star has completed naturalisation process, paving way to represent China at global tournament next month
- Anderson is latest in line of overseas athletes China has used to strengthen under-performing national teams
NBA star Kyle Anderson has become a Chinese citizen, Beijing’s basketball association said on Monday, paving the way for the Timberwolves forward to represent the country at next month’s World Cup.
China has naturalised a series of foreign-born athletes in recent years in a bid to strengthen its frequently under-performing national teams.
Anderson, who was born in New York and reportedly has a Chinese great-grandfather, said this year he would consider switching allegiance to Beijing.
“With the promotion and support of all parties, Li Kai’er obtained Chinese nationality this morning,” the China Basketball Association (CBA) said on its Weibo social media account, using Anderson’s Chinese name.
“We thank all parties for their support and help, Li’s family for their support, and the fans and media for their long-term attention to the Chinese men’s basketball team.”
The governing body posted a photo of a beaming Anderson standing with its chairman, former NBA star Yao Ming.