Which country does Josh Hart play for?

For any athlete, representing the country at the international level has been an ultimate goal. Basketball is no different. While there are many countries in the basketball spot, very few have reached the level of dominance the US national team has dominated over the years. So, players playing in the NBA, are looking to get a chance to represent the team with maximum chances of winning the gold in the tournament. Before the Knicks star, Josh Hart became a prominent figure in the basketball world, Hart's journey saw some ups and downs over the years.

We will go through his professional career and look for his achievements and performances that set him ready for the international level games. While in the world of professional basketball, few names resonate as strongly as Josh Hart, he had a tough route to glory. Known for his relentless work ethic, outstanding defensive skills, and explosive scoring ability, Hart has made a significant impact in the NBA.

Josh Hart’s Country of Origin

Josh Hart was born in Silver Spring, Maryland, United States – making him a US citizen.

He played a pivotal role in Sidwell Friends School and Villanova University before making a name for himself in the NBA. Josh Hart was declared for the 2017 NBA Draft. Selected as the 30th overall pick in the draft by the Utah Jazz, he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. Playing as a substitute role for a major part of his rookie season, Hart eventually as moved into the starting role for the LA team.

After averaging a respectable 8 points, 4 rebounds, a steal, and assists in 25 minutes of game time, Hart was used as a major trade chip that brought superstar Anthony Davis to the Lakers. Finding new and improved ole at the Pelicans franchise, Josh Hart continued to develop as a perennial superstar in the league. Impacting both ends of the floor the 28-year-old star quickly became an important piece of the Pelicans' plans.

He was again used as an important piece for trade that changed the face of both the Pelicans and Trailblazers franchises. With more game time in Portland, Josh Hart averaged a career-high 20 points and 4.3 assists per game. He also had 1.2 steals and 5.2 rebounds per game performance that eventually helped the Trail Blazers to a new high.

Hart was again traded in February 2023, when Portland sent him to New York. As soon as Hart arrived in the Big Apple, he became a fan favorite instantly, as many started calling me 'Hart of the City'. Last two seasons, Josh Hart has been instrumental in the Knicks' success.

Josh Hart Performances with Team USA in FIBA Events

Josh Hart has only played one FIBA event with Team USA - the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Hart had a standout 2023 FIBA Men’s World Cup campaign, known for his tenacity and rebounding skills. Throughout the tournament, he averaged 5.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 18.1 minutes per game across eight contests, becoming a consistent starter in the last six games.

As Team USA's top rebounder, he played a vital role in their journey to a fourth-place finish. In his first World Cup start against Jordan on August 30, Hart recorded 12 rebounds, three assists, and two points in just 18 minutes. He achieved back-to-back double-digit rebound performances, including an 11-rebound effort against Greece. Hart's consistent rebounding and hustle made him an essential part of the 2023 USA Men’s National Team, where he brought grit and intensity to the international stage, solidifying his reputation as a valuable contributor and a force on the boards.