A total of 125 international players have earned spots on NBA opening-night rosters, according to an announcement by the league. These players represent 40 different countries and regions, spanning six continents. The NBA’s latest season begins this Tuesday, marking the tenth consecutive year where opening-night rosters have featured over 100 international players. Every one of the 30 teams in the league now includes at least one player born outside of the United States.
It’s worth noting that this year’s figure surpasses the prior record of 121 international players, a record initially set at the beginning of the 2017-2018 season and later matched at the start of the 2021-2022 season. Canada stands as the most well-represented country outside of the United States, boasting 26 players. France follows as the second most-represented nation with 14 players, including the highly anticipated rookie Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs, who was the number one pick in this year’s draft. Wembanyama is poised to make his regular-season debut on Wednesday when the Spurs go up against the Dallas Mavericks.
Among these international players, there are 64 from Europe, and among them is Serbian star Nikola Jokic, a two-time league MVP, who is determined to lead the Denver Nuggets toward another championship. The Dallas Mavericks and the Oklahoma City Thunder lead the league with eight international players each, closely followed by the Toronto Raptors and the San Antonio Spurs, who each have seven international players. The Boston Celtics and the Phoenix Suns each have six international players on their rosters.
The past five years have witnessed international players making a significant impact in the NBA, with MVP awards going to individuals such as Joel Embiid (Cameroon, 2022-23), Nikola Jokic (Serbia, 2021-22 and 2020-21), and Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece, 2019-20 and 2018-19).
The 2023-24 NBA season is already in full swing, promising thrilling matchups and intriguing storylines. Fans can look forward to the Western Conference finals rematch between the Los Angeles Lakers and the reigning champion Denver Nuggets, as well as the Phoenix Suns taking on the Golden State Warriors. As the season progresses, questions loom about which teams will emerge as top contenders and which superstar players may be in line for significant moves.
All in all
In a league that has long celebrated diversity and talent from all corners of the world, the 2023-24 NBA season reaffirms the global reach of basketball. With a record-breaking 125 international players gracing opening-night rosters, the stage is set for an electrifying season. From Canada to Serbia, France to Greece, the NBA showcases a stunning mosaic of international talent.
As the season unfolds, fans can expect thrilling matchups, intense rivalries, and the continued rise of international stars. Will reigning MVP Nikola Jokic lead the Denver Nuggets to another title? Can the revamped Phoenix Suns make their mark, or will the Los Angeles Lakers and the defending champion Denver Nuggets dominate the Western Conference once more?
One thing is clear: the NBA’s international influence is stronger than ever. It’s a testament to the universal appeal of basketball and the incredible talent that hails from every corner of the globe. As we follow the action on the court, we eagerly await the next chapter in this global basketball journey.
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