FC Bayern Basketball guard Duane Washington Jr. is moving closer to securing a German passport, a step that would clear his path to represent the German national team in future international competitions. Speaking after a 95-61 win over ALBA Berlin, the former NBA player confirmed that his naturalization paperwork is actively being processed.
The Naturalization Process and Passport Timeline
Washington, who was born in Frankfurt during his father’s professional basketball career in Germany, stated that he expects to receive his passport soon. While a precise date has not been finalized, the guard noted that the administrative steps are underway. Securing the document would change his roster status significantly under international basketball regulations.
Under FIBA rules, national teams are restricted to a single naturalized player on their roster. If Washington completes his paperwork, head coach Álex Mumbrú would have an additional option for that designated spot. Other candidates currently in consideration for that specific roster classification include Dylan Osetkowski of Valencia BC and Nick Weiler-Babb of Red Star Belgrade. Washington has set his sights on being available for major international fixtures, including the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Roots in Frankfurt and Growing Language Skills
Washington’s connection to Germany dates back to his birth in Frankfurt, where his father, Duane Washington Sr., played for TV Tatami Rhöndorf, a predecessor club to the Frankfurt Skyliners. The family returned to Michigan two years after his birth, but the recent contract with Bayern has brought the guard back to Germany. Describing his return, Washington said it feels correct to wear the club’s jersey in the country where his life began.
To help integrate into the local environment, the former Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns guard has started learning the language. Washington noted that acquiring basic language skills helps him feel more settled. Last season, the nephew of five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher played for Partizan Belgrade in the EuroLeague, where he averaged 15.5 points per contest.
Integration into the Bayern Rotation
In the domestic league victory against ALBA Berlin, Washington contributed 12 points in 18 minutes of action off the bench, shooting three of nine from beyond the arc while adding two rebounds and three assists. His scoring punch provides depth for the Munich club as the domestic and European schedules intensify.
Reflecting on his ambitions to join the German Basketball Federation squad, commonly known as the DBB team, Washington emphasized his desire to experience FIBA competition and the Olympic stage. Having heard positive assessments of the national program from various sources, the guard expressed eagerness to integrate into the group once his citizenship formalities conclude.
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