Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, was the setting for an unforgettable moment that merged sports, youth, and royalty. In a scene straight out of a modern fairytale, Princes Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel and Gyalsey Ugyen Wangchuck, the eldest sons of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema, watched with excitement as top NBA players took to the court in their own country.
At just nine and five years old, these young princes, affectionately nicknamed the Dragon Princes due to their royal lineage, have become symbols of a new generation. Always impeccably dressed, they followed each play attentively from the stands, surrounded by young people thrilled by the historic visit. The event, organized as part of the Hoops for Happiness, a program created by the Bhutan Olympic Committee and the Bhutan Basketball Federation in partnership with the NBA, drew nationwide attention and marked a milestone in the country’s sport history.
“We are here to inspire, share, and learn,” said AJ Green (Milwaukee Bucks), who, alongside Jonathan Isaac (Orlando Magic), Mason Plumlee (Charlotte Hornets), and Justin Holiday, was part of the historic NBA delegation visiting the small Himalayan kingdom for the first time.
“Seeing the kids get excited and dream big is the greatest gift”
Princes Gyalsey, aged 9, and Ugyen, aged 5, followed the game and watched their idols up close, undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The elder prince, heir to the throne, has shown his interest in sports on several occasions and hasn’t missed a single play. His younger brother, equally engaged, radiated joy throughout the game.
The Dragon Princes: Ambassadors of their Generation
The participation of the young Wangchuck princes is part of a long-standing tradition of closeness with the people, a value the Royal Family of Bhutan nurtures with great care. Both Gyalsey and Ugyen have accompanied their parents on official visits from a very young age.
NBA stars coming to Bhutan has ignited a spark in the hearts of thousands of young people in their country.
It’s a powerful reminder that even from the most remote Himalayan valleys, dreams can come true. AJ Green said, “Basketball is a beautiful game. With effort, discipline, and perseverance, any young Bhutanese can go far.”
Mason Plumlee echoed this sentiment, “We want young people to see that they too can dream big, even dream of playing in the NBA.” Justin Holiday added, “The hospitality of the Bhutanese people has been exceptional. This will be one of the best experiences of my life.”
A Royal Family that's Modern and Admired
The King and Queen of Bhutan and their three children form one of the most admired and beloved royal families in Asia. Young, approachable, and deeply committed to the well-being of their people. They project a modern image without abandoning their traditions.
King Jigme Khesar, known as the Dragon King, is celebrated for his dedication to his people’s happiness, while Queen Jetsun Pema, always elegant and effortlessly graceful, has charmed both Bhutanese and international admirers with her simplicity.
Their children are following in their footsteps
Crown Prince Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel, born in 2016, has already presided over official events. He displays a level of maturity remarkable for his age.
His younger brother, the charming Jigme Ugyen Wangchuck, born in 2020, is close behind, with a delightful mix of playfulness and solemnity.
And although she wasn’t present at this event, the youngest of the family, little Sonam Yangden, just a year and a half old, recently made her debut on an official visit with her parents, stealing all the attention during a trip to the Mongolian desert.