Jaxson Hayes Secures Slovenian Citizenship, Strengthening Lakers Ties

The move allows the backup center to play alongside teammate Luka Doncic on the Slovenian national team.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Los Angeles Lakers backup center Jaxson Hayes has completed the process to obtain Slovenian citizenship, a move that will allow him to join the Slovenian national team and continue playing alongside teammate Luka Doncic. While no official contract extension has been signed, the groundwork appears to be in place for Hayes to remain with the Lakers beyond the 2025-26 season.

Why it matters

This development strengthens the Lakers' roster by keeping Hayes, a valuable backup center, in the fold. It also allows him to represent Slovenia internationally alongside Doncic, one of the NBA's brightest stars. The move could signal a long-term commitment between Hayes and the Lakers organization.

The details

Jaxson Hayes, a 25-year-old center from Norman, Oklahoma, has completed the paperwork to become a Slovenian citizen. This will enable him to join the Slovenian national team and play alongside his Lakers teammate Luka Doncic. While no official contract extension has been signed, ESPN insider Brian Windhorst believes the move is a precursor to Hayes securing a long-term deal to remain with the Lakers.

  • In October 2025, Hayes first confirmed he was pursuing Slovenian citizenship.
  • In February 2026, Hayes completed the process to obtain Slovenian citizenship.

The players

Jaxson Hayes

A 25-year-old backup center for the Los Angeles Lakers, who was born in Norman, Oklahoma and is now finalizing Slovenian citizenship.

Luka Doncic

The star player for the Slovenian national team and Jaxson Hayes' teammate on the Los Angeles Lakers.

Brian Windhorst

An ESPN insider who reported on Jaxson Hayes' move to obtain Slovenian citizenship.

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What they’re saying

“Jaxson Hayes completed the paperwork to become a Slovenian. He can join the Slovenian national team for Luka, which I'd like to say is one of the smartest things Jaxson Hayes has ever done because I think he's just secretly signed a contract extension.”

— Brian Windhorst, ESPN Insider (The Hoops Collective podcast)

What’s next

Jaxson Hayes is expected to officially join the Slovenian national team and represent the country in upcoming FIBA international competitions alongside his Lakers teammate Luka Doncic.

The takeaway

Jaxson Hayes' decision to obtain Slovenian citizenship demonstrates his commitment to the Lakers organization and his desire to continue playing alongside one of the NBA's rising superstars, Luka Doncic. This move could pave the way for a long-term contract extension, solidifying Hayes' future in Los Angeles.