The Best International NBA Players Dominating the 2024-2025 Season

August 14, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

From Slovenia to Cameroon, international stars are redefining basketball excellence in the NBA. These elite players didn’t grow up on U.S. hardwoods, but they’ve become household names thanks to their talent, tenacity, and unique playing styles. Here's a breakdown of the top foreign-born talents lighting up the league this season.

Nikola Jokić

Known for his dazzling court vision and supreme basketball IQ, Nikola Jokić has emerged as one of the most complete big men in the game. The Denver Nuggets' star center orchestrates the offense with precision passing, smooth footwork, and unshakeable calm under pressure. At 30, the "Joker" continues to make the extraordinary look effortless.

Birthplace: Sombor, Serbia
Team: Denver Nuggets
Position: Center

Giannis Antetokounmpo

Photo: Ververidis Vasilis / Shutterstock.com

Dubbed "The Greek Freak" for a reason, Giannis Antetokounmpo is the very definition of versatility. With the strength of a power forward and the agility of a guard, Giannis dominates both ends of the court. His intensity and commitment to growth have made him a perennial MVP candidate—and a nightmare for defenders.

Birthplace: Athens, Greece
Team: Milwaukee Bucks
Position: Power Forward

Luka Dončić

luka doncic — Vitalii Vitleo / Shutterstock.com

Luka Dončić isn’t just a gifted scorer—he’s a born playmaker. The Slovenian sensation blends finesse with grit, consistently delivering highlight-reel performances. Whether he's dropping dimes or hitting deep threes, Luka's high basketball IQ and clutch gene make him one of the league’s most watchable stars.

Birthplace: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Team: Los Angeles Lakers
Position: Small Forward

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Smooth, sharp, and impossible to guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has quickly climbed into elite guard territory. The Canadian-born floor general is known for his control, creativity, and cool-headed decision-making. As OKC's franchise cornerstone, Shai’s rapid ascent is thrilling to watch.

Birthplace: Toronto, Canada
Team: Oklahoma City Thunder
Position: Point Guard

Victor Wembanyama

At just 21, Victor Wembanyama is already changing the way we think about big men. With a 7'2" frame and the footwork of a guard, Wemby blocks shots, stretches the floor, and plays with maturity beyond his years. It’s not hype—it’s the future unfolding in real time.

Birthplace: Le Chesnay, France
Team: San Antonio Spurs
Position: Power Forward / Center

Joel Embiid

Joel Embiid blends size, strength, and skill like few others. A commanding presence in the paint, the Cameroonian big man also has the finesse to hit jumpers and the charisma to win over fans. With his physical tools and emotional fire, Embiid continues to define what it means to be a modern center.

Birthplace: Yaoundé, Cameroon
Team: Philadelphia 76ers
Position: Center

Pascal Siakam

Pascal Siakam's rise from Cameroon to NBA All-Star is built on hustle and heart. Known for his motor and defensive versatility, Siakam has also developed a dangerous offensive game. Whether slashing to the rim or hitting spot-up shots, he's a matchup problem every night.

Birthplace: Douala, Cameroon
Team: Indiana Pacers
Position: Power Forward

Domantas Sabonis

Domantas Sabonis brings old-school grit with a new-school twist. The Lithuanian forward is a relentless rebounder and a gifted passer, often acting as a playmaker from the post. With his soft touch and high energy, Sabonis is a constant double-double threat.

Birthplace: Lithuania
Team: Sacramento Kings
Position: Power Forward

Kristaps Porzingis

Known as the “Latvian Unicorn,” Kristaps Porzingis is redefining what it means to be a big man. At 7'3", he’s capable of swatting shots on one end and knocking down threes on the other. Injuries have slowed him in the past, but when healthy, his skillset is elite.

Birthplace: Ventspils, Latvia
Team: Atlanta Hawks
Position: Power Forward

Jamal Murray

When the game’s on the line, few guards are as dangerous as Jamal Murray. The Canadian combo guard has a knack for catching fire and making big-time shots when it matters most. His fierce competitiveness and smooth offensive game make him a vital piece for Denver's championship hopes.

Birthplace: Kitchener, Canada
Team: Denver Nuggets
Position: Point Guard