Not without criticism, Spain gave express Spanish nationality to the American Lorenzo Brown (31), who will play for the national team in the Eurobasket. 

On July 5, he was approved by "carta de naturaleza" - a way to get express Spanish citizenship - that was criticized by players, heavyweights, and the union (ABP).

Brown was born in Roswell (Georgia) and had never played in Spain. Last season, he played for Russia's UNICS. Next season, he'll play for Maccabi.

Brown is an expert point guard with the ability to score and lead in difficult situations - an important role without injured Ricky Rubio.

At UNICS in the Euroleague, he averaged 13.8 points and 6.1 assists. He's also played in China, Serbia, and Turkey.

He was drafted 52nd overall in 2013 by the Timberwolves, but was waived. Sergio Scariolo worked with him as an assistant coach with the Raptors.

In 2015, with the Timberwolves, he played alongside Kevin Garnett:  “I could get into his head. He's been the best mentor I've had."

 Brown got the spot on the National Team ahead of two other previously nationalized players: Serge Ibaka and Nikola Mirotic.

In the Eurobasket, there are 11 nationalized players. Only one is not American: Mohamed Kherrazi, who is Moroccan and plays for Holland.

In the first phase, Spain will face Dee Bost (Bulgaria), Theo McFadden (Georgia), Kendrick Perry (Montenegro) and Shane Larkin (Turkey).

Larkin, the pillar for Turkey, might be the most important player of all those nationalized. The point guard has been with Efes since 2018.

Center Mike Tobey, ex player for Valencia, who will play for Barcelona, will get a rematch of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics with Slovenian Luka Doncic.