The National Basketball Association (NBA) has revealed an impressive milestone for the upcoming 2025-26 season, showcasing a record 135 international players from 43 countries. This diverse roster spans six continents and reflects the league’s growing global influence. Included in this milestone are 71 European players, with notable contributions from France, which boasts 19 players, and the UK, represented by four players. Additionally, Australia ties for the most representatives from a single country outside the U.S., with 13 players.
The consistent trend of international representation continues as all 30 teams in the NBA feature at least one international player. This marks the fifth consecutive season with a minimum of 120 international players and the twelfth consecutive season surpassing 100 international players on opening-night rosters. The previous record of 125 international players was set at the beginning of the 2023-24 season.
Highlighting the talent among these international players are notable stars such as two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo from Greece, three-time MVP Nikola Jokić from Serbia, and rising star Victor Wembanyama from France. The Canadian contingent, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, has consistently been strong, with 23 players, marking 12 seasons in a row as the leading nation outside the USA.
The Atlanta Hawks are proud to showcase a record-tying ten international players this season, while the Portland Trail Blazers and Golden State Warriors each have seven.
The roster also features more than 55 players with African roots, including champions like Joel Embiid from Cameroon and Pascal Siakam from Cameroon. Additionally, the recent NBA GM Survey predicts a tight race for the MVP Award, with Jokić, Dončić, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Wembanyama among the top contenders.
In total, 16 international players who have previously been NBA All-Stars are part of this season’s opening-night rosters, reinforcing the league’s commitment to diversity and global talent. This year’s season will be broadcasted in over 214 countries, reaching fans in more than 50 languages, showcasing the NBA’s ability to unify through basketball.
The 80th NBA regular season kicks off tonight with a doubleheader, featuring the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, taking on the Houston Rockets, followed by the Golden State Warriors visiting the Los Angeles Lakers.
This season promises to be one filled with excitement and new international talent, highlighting the evolving landscape of the NBA and its increasing focus on international players.