China’s first naturalized basketball player regains American citizenship
The NBA official website now lists Kyle Anderson, player for the Utah Jazz, as a US citizen again – a fact noticed by Chinese fans. In summer 2023, Anderson received Chinese citizenship and changed his name to Li Kaier (李凯尔), becoming the first naturalized player in China’s men’s national basketball team history. This move was significant for China’s participation in the 2023 World Cup and the qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Source NetEasy
The naturalization contract included participation in two tournaments: the 2023 World Championship and Olympic qualifiers. However, China’s national team failed to secure an Olympic berth. Ultimately, Anderson played nine games for the national team: five at the World Cup and four friendlies. Chinese media report that the naturalization cost approximately $1 million, paid by sponsors.
Now that Anderson has reverted to American citizenship, this highlights the complexities and challenges of athlete naturalization policies in China. The future developments remain to be seen, but this experience presents both valuable lessons and opportunities for Chinese basketball.
