RONDAE Hollis-Jefferson has captured the NBA world’s attention at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

The former first-round pick, 28, is being touted for a return to the league after his strong performances for the Jordanian national team.

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A former first-round pick, Hollis-Jefferson last played in the NBA two years agoCredit: Getty
Hollis-Jefferson last played in the NBA for the Portland Trail Blazers in 2021.

Since leaving the organization he’s hopped between teams in Turkey, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and South Korea.

But his standout play for Jordan at this year’s World Cup has thrust him back into the NBA conversation.

Hollis-Jefferson averaged 23.6 points in the group stages as he spearheaded Jordan’s attack with speed and power.

He had always been seen as a strong defender and rebounder during his NBA stint, but never the best shooter from the field.

All that appears to have changed though, with Team USA’s Bobby Portis amongst those impressed by Hollis-Jefferson’s glow-up.

Portis said: “Life is all about facing adversities and challenges, and I think my guy did that.

“He didn’t give up. His game elevated, and I think guys are going to take notice.”

Hollis-Jefferson’s unique skillset saw him compared with NBA great Kobe Bryant after he inspired Jordan to a narrow loss over New Zealand.

The forward wore the same No. 24 jersey as the Los Angeles Lakers legend in the game, going viral for his spooky likeness to the tragic star.

The Pennsylvania native said: “[The comparison] means a lot, it’s an honor. There’s only one Kobe, for sure.

“But to feel that love and energy down the stretch and to hit those big shots.

“God was with me, and Kobe was with me, for sure.”

Still only 28 years old, there is a legitimate path back into the NBA for the former No. 23 overall pick with scouts keeping a close eye on the World Cup.

Hollis-Jefferson looks to have used his time overseas to work hard on his attacking game.

His best season in the NBA came in 2017-18 for the Brooklyn Nets, where he averaged 13.9 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

Hollis-Jefferson has since revealed the pain of dropping away from the league could be the inspiration he needs to get back.

He said: “I thought I was on the pedestal. I thought I could do anything I wanted.

“Not being in the NBA and not having a roster spot kind of woke me up to humble myself.”