The NBA has seen its share of sibling talent over the years, and one of the most exciting duos to emerge recently is twin brothers Amen and Ausar Thompson. Amen plays for the Houston Rockets, while Ausar suits up for the Detroit Pistons. The duo entered the league as high-profile prospects after being selected in the 2023 NBA Draft.
In a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer, Amen Thompson revealed that he and his brother are open to playing for Jamaica in international basketball competitions. Their desire stems from a deep emotional connection to the island and its athletic legacy.
“Ever since I was a kid, you know, I used to watch the Olympics and see Usain Bolt, [Yohan] Blake. And I always was like, you know, Jamaica always represents gold and it’s always been like a dream. I always wanted to see a basketball team. I always wanted to picture basketball players with a Jamaica jersey on. And I’ve always wanted to wear one too,” Amen said.
Amen and Ausar Thompson are open to representing Jamaica in future FIBA & Olympics competitions 🇯🇲🙌
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) May 26, 2025
Amen:
“Ever since I was a kid, you know, I used to watch the Olympics and see Usain Bolt, [Yohan] Blake. And I always was like, you know, Jamaica always represents gold— and… pic.twitter.com/44QYjpu1J9
Although Amen and Ausar hold American citizenship, their bond with Jamaica is personal. Their father is Jamaican, and that heritage has remained a source of pride for both brothers. The twin brothers are also in the process of applying for citizenship in Jamaica.
Amen Thompson Joins NBA’s Elite Defenders Early In Career
Rockers star Amen Thompson has taken the league by storm with his defensive tenacity by earning a spot on the 2025 NBA All-Defensive First Team in just his second season. With this honor, Thompson becomes just the fifth player in Rockets history to earn a First Team All-Defense selection.
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First Team All-Defensive:
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) May 22, 2025
Dyson Daniels, Lu Dort, Draymond Green, Evan Mobley and Amen Thompson. pic.twitter.com/YstM5goZEd
Amen’s impact extends beyond Houston. He is now the ninth player in NBA history to make an All-Defensive First Team in either their first or second year.
Additionally, Thompson is one of only seven players aged 22 or younger who secure a first-team nod for the majority of a season. What makes his rise even more exciting for Houston fans is that he hasn’t even reached his prime yet. With his rookie deal still active, the Rockets are benefiting from All-NBA-level defense at tremendous value from Amen.
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