Top 10 Best Basketball Players in the World 2025

August 26, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

The NBA, the premier basketball league in North America, is widely recognized as the best professional basketball league in the world. Every season, players push the limits of athleticism, skill, and leadership. From dominant big men to all-around playmakers, the 2025 season has delivered incredible performances.

Here’s our ranking of the 10 best basketball players in the world right now.

10. Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers, Cameroon/USA)

The 2023 NBA MVP remains one of the league’s premier scorers and rebounders. Embiid has led the league in scoring multiple times and added Olympic gold with Team USA in 2024. His combination of power and finesse keeps him among the top centers in basketball.

9. Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers, USA)

“AD” continues to anchor the Lakers with elite defense and versatility. A nine-time All-Star, NBA champion (2020), and member of the inaugural NBA Cup-winning team in 2023, Davis is still one of the league’s most dominant big men when healthy.

8. Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors, USA)

The greatest shooter of all time remains a force at age 37. With four championships, two MVPs, and a 2024 Olympic gold medal, Curry’s impact on the game is unmatched. His leadership and clutch shooting keep the Warriors competitive.

7. Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics, USA)

Fresh off leading the Celtics to their 18th NBA title in 2024, Tatum is now firmly in superstar territory. With five All-Star appearances, four All-NBA selections, and a Finals MVP, he has proven himself as Boston’s franchise leader.

6. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder, Canada)

SGA has emerged as a superstar. In 2023, he averaged over 31 points per game, earned All-NBA First Team honors, and led Canada to a bronze medal at the FIBA World Cup. His ability to score from anywhere and lead a young OKC squad makes him one of the best guards in the league.

5. Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs, France)

The 7’4” French sensation has already lived up to the hype. Drafted No.1 in 2023, Wemby’s shot-blocking, shooting range, and mobility make him unlike any player the NBA has ever seen. He was instrumental in France’s Olympic silver in 2024 and is already on track to be one of the all-time greats.

4. Kevin Durant (Phoenix Suns, USA)

Photo: Oleksiy Naumov / Shutterstock.com

KD remains one of the league’s purest scorers. With two titles, two Finals MVPs, and an MVP award, Durant’s resume speaks for itself. Even after injuries, he continues to put up elite numbers and remains a top offensive weapon.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks, Greece)

The “Greek Freak” is still one of the most dominant forces in the game. With two MVPs, a Defensive Player of the Year award, and a 2021 NBA championship under his belt, Giannis’ size, speed, and skill make him a nightmare matchup on both ends.

2. Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks, Slovenia)

luka doncic — Vitalii Vitleo / Shutterstock.com

“Luka Magic” has been dazzling fans with his scoring and playmaking since his arrival in the NBA. In 2024, he became the league’s top scorer, the first European to achieve the feat. A five-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA First Team member already, Dončić is the future of the NBA.

1. Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets, Serbia)

The “Joker” continues to dominate as the most complete big man in the game. With three MVP awards (2021, 2022, 2024), a Finals MVP (2023), and Denver’s first-ever NBA championship, Jokić has cemented himself as the league’s most impactful player. His vision, scoring, and rebounding make him the most unstoppable center today.