








2 Current, 1 Former Utah Jazz Player Slated for EuroBasket Tournament


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Three Jazz‑Affiliated Players Set to Shine at the 2025 EuroBasket
A recent Sports Illustrated feature on the Utah Jazz highlights an unexpected international spotlight for the franchise. The story—titled “2 Current & 1 Former Utah Jazz Player Slated for 2025 EuroBasket”—unveils a trio of Jazz‑connected athletes who will represent their respective countries in Europe’s premier national‑team competition, the FIBA EuroBasket 2025. While the NBA’s domestic drama often dominates headlines, this article shows how the league’s talent pool is also making waves on the international stage.
Who’s on the Line?
Jalen Suggs – Current Jazz guard
Suggs, a rookie‑turned‑core player for the Jazz, has earned a spot on the United States men’s national team roster that will compete in the 2025 EuroBasket tournament. The 22‑year‑old is praised for his perimeter play, defensive versatility, and the work ethic that earned him a contract out of the 2022 draft.Jordan Clarkson – Current Jazz guard
The veteran guard, known for his clutch shooting and hustle, also earned a place on the USA squad. Clarkson, 33, has been a key contributor off the bench for the Jazz and brings a wealth of playoff experience that coaches believe will be invaluable for the international competition.Chris Johnson – Former Jazz forward
Johnson, who spent a brief stint with the Jazz in 2019, has reinvented himself on the international circuit. He’s signed with the French club ASVEL Basket and was selected to represent France in the EuroBasket 2025 lineup. The 29‑year‑old’s smooth post play and shot‑making ability have made him a fan favorite in the French Pro A league.
Why EuroBasket Matters
EuroBasket, governed by FIBA Europe, is the continent’s flagship national‑team tournament and serves as a critical qualifier for the World Cup and the Olympic Games. For many NBA players, participation offers a chance to showcase their talent against top European competition and to bolster their international reputations.
The article links to the official FIBA EuroBasket page, where the tournament’s schedule, venues, and groupings are displayed. EuroBasket 2025 will be hosted jointly by France and Spain, featuring 24 national teams in a double‑round robin format that culminates in knockout rounds. The Jazz trio’s involvement underscores the growing interconnection between the NBA and FIBA’s developmental pathways.
The Jazz’s Global Vision
In a broader context, the feature highlights how the Jazz organization has embraced international exposure. Former head coach Steve Nash—who spent a year as the franchise’s president of basketball operations—emphasized the importance of global outreach in an interview with the Utah Jazz Blog. Nash noted that the league’s “global brand is only as strong as the international careers of our players.”
The article cites the Jazz’s “International Outreach Initiative,” which includes training camps in Mexico City and partnerships with European clubs for loan arrangements. By facilitating player participation in events like EuroBasket, the franchise not only supports individual growth but also raises its own profile among international fans.
Inside the Players’ Preparation
Suggs: The article quotes his head coach at the Jazz, Darryl Johnson, who praised Suggs’ “quick learning curve” and “ability to adapt to different defensive schemes.” Suggs himself said that representing the U.S. in a European setting will test his resilience and sharpen his skills against diverse offensive systems.
Clarkson: Clarkson’s coach, Jon McBride, highlighted his veteran leadership as crucial to the national team’s dynamic. Clarkson added that the opportunity to play alongside international stars is a “once‑in‑a‑career experience” that will expand his understanding of basketball beyond the NBA.
Johnson: While a former Jazz player, Johnson’s current club, ASVEL, has been a top contender in the EuroCup. The article links to a recent ASVEL press release announcing Johnson’s EuroBasket call‑up, and includes a brief interview where he talks about adapting to the different playing styles in Europe and the pride he feels in representing France.
What’s Next for the Jazz and the EuroBasket?
The feature ends with a look ahead. The EuroBasket tournament is set to begin in September 2025, a full two years from the article’s publication. The Jazz organization plans to maintain close contact with its players abroad, offering support and ensuring their smooth transition between NBA and international play.
Meanwhile, fans of the franchise and followers of global basketball can anticipate a unique blend of high‑stakes competition and cultural exchange. Whether Suggs, Clarkson, or Johnson can help their national teams advance past the group stage, the experience will undoubtedly enrich the Jazz’s roster and contribute to the NBA’s expanding influence worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- Three Jazz‑affiliated players—Jalen Suggs, Jordan Clarkson, and Chris Johnson—have secured spots on national teams for the 2025 EuroBasket.
- EuroBasket 2025 will be hosted by France and Spain, featuring 24 teams in a double‑round robin format.
- The Jazz organization’s international outreach and partnership initiatives are designed to support player development and elevate the franchise’s global presence.
- Players’ quotes and coaching staff insights underscore the significance of representing their countries and the growth potential for both individual and franchise careers.
The Sports Illustrated article provides an engaging snapshot of how NBA talent can seamlessly transition into international competition, and it reinforces the idea that basketball’s reach extends far beyond the NBA’s borders. By highlighting the journeys of Suggs, Clarkson, and Johnson, the feature offers a compelling narrative that will resonate with fans of the Utah Jazz and European basketball alike.
Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/nba/jazz/news/2-current-1-former-utah-jazz-player-slated-2025-eurobasket ]