Norman Powell: From Jamaica’s Courts to Miami’s Heat
In a thrilling matchup during the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualification, Norman Powell of Jamaica faced off against Carl Thorpe of Barbados in Mexico on August 8, 2025. This game marked a significant moment for Powell, who is now set to bring that momentum into the upcoming NBA season with the Miami Heat.
A Champion’s Journey
Norman Powell, a proud NBA champion with the Toronto Raptors in 2019, is gearing up for his 11th season in the league. After a trade from the Los Angeles Clippers in July, he’s ready to make a splash with the Heat. The NBA season kicks off on October 21, and Powell is eager to showcase his skills.
This summer, Powell played a pivotal role in helping Jamaica qualify for the World Cup, a historic achievement for the team. His standout performance came during a nail-biting overtime victory against Costa Rica, where he scored an impressive 34 points. “Helping them qualify for the first time in the team’s and country’s history was a bonus,” Powell shared, reflecting on the pride he feels representing Jamaica.
Deepening Roots
Born in the United States to a Jamaican father, Powell’s connection to his heritage has grown through his experiences with the national team. “For me, it was a passion project,” he explained. “Immersing myself in the culture, meeting the guys, and learning patois was amazing.” The warmth and support from the Jamaican community have been overwhelming, and Powell is grateful for the love he’s received.
Learning from the Game
Competing internationally has introduced Powell to a different style of play. “The FIBA experience was definitely good for me,” he noted. The physicality of international basketball has prepared him for the challenges of the NBA. “Playing full court for the summer is going to be beneficial for me heading into the season,” he added, emphasizing the importance of live gameplay.
Miami’s Jamaican Connection
Miami boasts the second-largest Jamaican population in the U.S., and Powell is already feeling the love from the Diaspora. “People have come up to me, showing respect for helping the team move to the next round,” he said. As he settles into Miami, he looks forward to enjoying authentic Jamaican food and connecting with the community.
Giving Back to Jamaica
With Jamaica just a short flight away, Powell plans to visit more often. He’s eager to engage in community outreach and help develop basketball on the island. “I’m definitely looking forward to spending more time down there after the season,” he said, expressing his desire to give back to his roots.
Aiming for Greatness
Last season, Powell averaged a career-high 21.8 points per game but missed out on an All-Star selection. This year, he’s determined to change that. “I always have high expectations for myself,” he stated. “Helping this team win is the main focus.” The Miami Heat, who finished with a 37-45 record last season, are looking to bounce back, and Powell believes they have the right mix of talent and teamwork to contend for a championship.
As the season approaches, fans are left wondering: Will Norman Powell’s journey from Jamaica to Miami lead to an unforgettable season? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—his heart is firmly rooted in both places.