Heat guard Norman Powell honors Jamaican heritage during NBA All-Star weekend
During the NBA’s All-Star Game weekend, Miami Heat guard Norman Powell made history: He became the first player of Jamaican descent in franchise history to be selected to participate in the showcase, representing Jamaica as a member of Team World.
The NBA introduced a new format for the game, with U.S. players challenging NBA players from other nations.
Powell, who grew up in California, said he asked to be moved to Team World as part of his efforts to tap more into his Jamaican roots.
“My father is from Kingston, but I don’t know much of my family’s background there,” something he told reporters he is working to change.
Powell made something else clear: He wants to re-sign with the Miami Heat and remain in South Florida.
The Heat acquired Powell from the Los Angeles Clippers in July when guard Tyler Herro was injured. Powell is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent this summer and is eligible for a four-year, $128.5 million extension with Miami.
In his 11th NBA season, Powell is delivering playing arguably the best basketball of his career, analyts say, averaging 23 points per game while shooting efficiently from the floor and beyond the 3-point arc. He took part in the 3-Point Contest during All-Star weekend, finishing with 23 points. Damian Lillard won with 29 points.
“The organization has been amazing. I love where I am,” Powell told reporters. “I love the mentality. I love the approach … the organization has the same mentality I have of pushing yourself to achieve the best and be the best version of yourself.” .
That’s good news for Miramar’s vibrant Jamaican community, since Powell has said he wants to connect more with his Jamaican roots.
He said he was surprised to learn the Jamaican national team followed his career closely and has formed ties with them, helping whenever he can.
“Connecting with them has been incredible,” Powell said.
He added that he would represent Jamaica in other world competitions if given the chance.
For the Heat — and for the Jamaican community watching proudly from Miramar to Kingston — that’s the kind of commitment that feels like family.
One thing Powell is well-versed in is Jamaican food. Asked if Chinese food was better than Jamaican food, he said: “No chance! Rice and peas with oxtails, jerk chicken, curry — no chance!”
Powell and the Heat resume their season on Friday, Feb. 20, against the Hawks in Atlanta, then host the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday, Feb. 21.
