Particle.news
Download on the App Store

NBA Opens Season With Record 135 International Players, 71 From Europe

The record mirrors the NBA’s wider global push, including ongoing talks with FIBA on a Europe-based league.

Jun 22, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) lifts the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy as the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrate after winning game seven of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images/File Photo
Oct 14, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dunks against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
Oct 17, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) controls the ball during the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Oct 14, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) during the first half against the Chicago Bulls at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Players on opening-night rosters come from 43 countries, tying a record, and all 30 teams have at least one international player.
  • NBA and FIBA are in discussions about a Europe-based competition that could launch as early as 2027, Commissioner Adam Silver has said.
  • The league is expected to finalize a new All-Star format that matches U.S. players against international players in a tournament.
  • Non-U.S.-born players have won the last seven MVP awards, with Canada’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander the reigning winner.
  • Three European head coaches start the season in charge: Jordi Fernandez (Nets), Tuomas Iisalo (Grizzlies), and Darko Rajakovic (Raptors).