News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. October 21, 2024: The Caribbean has seen some of the world’s greatest athletes come from many small countries. Legends like Usain Bolt and Tim Duncan have hailed from this stunningly beautiful region, but it’s not just retired athletes who hail from Caribbean countries. Many current athletes in a variety of sports are from these coastal countries or have direct family that was born in the Caribbean. In this article, we will explore Caribbean NBA players.
This is especially true in the National Basketball Association, where recent years have led to a massive increase in the presence of athletes of Caribbean heritage. This has led to a huge increase in the popularity of basketball throughout the region. While proud Caribbean residents do not have a specific Caribbean team to bet on, they can bet on Caribbean NBA athletes on all sports betting apps.
The Caribbean continues to make its mark on the NBA this season, with several notable players born in the region. These athletes are representing their nations on one of the biggest stages in basketball, showcasing their skills on multiple teams. Let’s take a look at the Caribbean-born players who are currently shining in the NBA.
Al Horford
Veteran player Al Horford, born June 3, 1986, in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, is a key player for the Boston Celtics. Horford, a five-time NBA All-Star, finally won his first NBA championship in 2024 after nearly two decades in the league. His leadership and experience remain invaluable to the Celtics. Horford is Latin America’s highest-paid basketball player ever and a legendary figure throughout the Dominican Republic.
Buddy Hild
Chavano Rainer “Buddy” Hild, born December 17, 1992, in Freeport, Bahamas, is playing for the Golden State Warriors. Hild, known for his sharpshooting skills, has had a distinguished career since being drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2016. After stints with the Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers and Philadelphia 76ers, he landed in Golden State in 2024 with six teams. .
Deandre Ayton – Bahamas
Deandre Ayton, born July 23, 1998, in Nassau, Bahamas, is a dominant force in the NBA as a center for the Portland Trail Blazers. Ayton was the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns and played a crucial role in leading the Suns to the 2021 NBA Finals. Now with Portland, Ayton continues to be one of the league’s top players.
Kai Jones – Bahamas
Kai Martinez Jones, born January 19, 2001, in Nassau, Bahamas, currently plays for the Los Angeles Clippers under a two-way contract with their G League affiliate, the San Diego Clippers. A young and athletic player, Jones continues to develop his game after being drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 2021.
Chris Duarte – Dominican Republic
Christopher Theoret Duarte, born June 13, 1997, in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, is a skilled guard for the Chicago Bulls.. Duarte made an immediate impact in the league after being drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 2021 and has since moved to Chicago, where he aims to continue his impressive career trajectory.
