Basketball is no longer an American sport, and the NBA is no longer just America’s league; it’s a global stage where international talent is dominating. Just look at the last half-decade: MVP trophies being passed around them, Finals MVPs representing countries far from U.S. soil, and the current EuroBasket serving as a reminder that overseas greatness is as deep as ever.
The 2025-26 season is shaping up to be another showcase where the world’s best are the faces of franchises and, in some cases, the entire league. That’s why ranking the 15 best international players right now is a real statement about where the NBA stands today. The NBA’s global takeover is in full swing, so let’s dive in.
1. Nikola Jokic
2024-25 Season Statistics: 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 10.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Nikola Jokic remains the undisputed best international player on the planet and arguably the best player in the NBA, period. His combination of size, skill, and sheer basketball genius means the three-time MVP could be on track to win his fourth award in 2025-26.
No center has ever dictated pace and flow the way Jokic does, and his ability to turn role players into playoff contributors makes the Denver Nuggets a perennial contender. The Serbian is not flashy, he’s not particularly exciting to watch, but he’s the closest thing to perfect basketball has right now.
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo
2024-25 Season Statistics: 30.4 PPG, 11.9 RPG, 6.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.2 BPG
Giannis Antetokounmpo still plays with the drive of someone trying to prove he belongs in the NBA, even after two MVPs, a Finals MVP, and a championship. The Greek Freak remains the most physically overwhelming player in the game, and there isn’t a better two-way star in the league right now.
The Milwaukee Bucks may have retooled around him, but Giannis hasn’t changed: he’s still the hardest cover in basketball and the definition of consistency at the superstar level. Next season, we expect Giannis to continue being a top-two international player in the world as he chases Jokic for his third MVP trophy.
3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
2024-25 Season Statistics: 32.7 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.0 BPG
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is one of the NBA’s absolute elite after leading the OKC Thunder to the NBA championship last season. His herky-jerky pace, lethal midrange, and improved playmaking make him a nightmare for defenses, and he’s only getting more efficient with volume.
At this point, he’s not just the face of the Thunder but the face of Canadian basketball, and one of the most dangerous closers in the game. OKC’s future is built on him, and his rise feels like a lock to continue. The only reason he ranks third among international players is that Jokic and Giannis’ raw size and dominance give them a slight edge.
4. Luka Doncic
2024-25 Season Statistics: 28.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 7.7 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Wearing purple and gold, Luka Doncic’s presence on the Los Angeles Lakers only amplifies his superstar glow. Doncic is an offensive genius, capable of generating efficient looks for himself and everyone around him. Few players in NBA history have combined scoring, rebounding, and passing at his level, with a player like Larry Bird coming to mind.
Amazingly, the Slovenian is still only scratching his prime years. In a league stacked with talent, Luka still feels like the player you’d trust to control a game on the biggest stage, and he proved it by leading the Mavericks to the NBA Finals in 2023-24.
5. Victor Wembanyama
2024-25 Season Statistics: 24.3 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 3.8 BPG
The future is already here. Victor Wembanyama’s sophomore leap has been nothing short of breathtaking, as he’s quickly become the most feared rim protector in basketball while also flashing superstar offensive upside. The Frenchman was on track to win Defensive Player of the Year and was even in MVP conversations at some point.
Wemby’s combination of length, agility, and touch is unlike anything the league has ever seen, and at just 21, he’s already an All-NBA-level force. If this list were projecting forward, Wemby might be No. 1 sooner rather than later.
6. Joel Embiid
2024-25 Season Statistics: 23.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 4.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.9 BPG
Health questions the only reason he isn’t in the top-five, Joel Embiid remains a two-way monster when he’s on the floor. His scoring versatility at his size is unmatched, and when he’s locked in defensively, the 76ers become a completely different team.
The former MVP award win and the all-NBA nods tell the story: Embiid belongs in the very top tier. But the question continues to persist: can his body hold up in 2025-26? Unfortunately, history tells us that it won’t, but we are hoping the Cameroonian can put it all together.
7. Domantas Sabonis
2024-25 Season Statistics: 19.1 PPG, 13.9 RPG, 6.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Domantas Sabonis may not be a highlight-reel machine, but he’s the engine of everything Sacramento does. A walking double-double with elite passing vision, Sabonis has carved out a reputation as one of the best all-around forces in basketball.
His toughness on the boards and ability to keep an offense flowing make him invaluable, and his All-Star production is a big reason why the Kings have remained relevant in the West. Next season, we expect the Lithuanian star to continue posting double-doubles.
8. Pascal Siakam
2024-25 Season Statistics: 20.2 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Cameroonian star Pascal Siakam has found new life in Indiana, where his two-way versatility and veteran leadership have given the Pacers a steady star presence. Siakam’s presence was felt as he helped guide the team to the NBA Finals last season.
He’s never been the flashiest name, but his ability to score, defend, and playmake at a high level makes him one of the most valuable international forwards in the league. With Indiana’s young core growing around him, Siakam’s steady All-Star output has never looked more important.
9. Jamal Murray
2024-25 Season Statistics: 21.4 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Jamal Murray has solidified himself as more than just Jokic’s sidekick. He’s a bona fide star in his own right, and he has proven it throughout his playoff career. His ability to rise to the moment in the playoffs is well-documented, and that’s enough to put him in the top 10.
Canada’s elite scorer has unwavering confidence, and we can’t wait to see what he does in 2025-26 alongside his superstar teammate. With elite shot-making, improved playmaking, and leadership, Murray’s place among the league’s top international guards is unquestionable.
10. Franz Wagner
2024-25 Season Statistics: 24.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG
The Orlando Magic have their cornerstone wing, and his name is Franz Wagner. Already a polished scorer with a smooth shooting stroke, Wagner has developed into a more versatile playmaker and defender, making him the perfect modern forward.
His rise will likely contribute to Orlando’s climb up the East standings in 2025-26, and his ceiling looks nowhere near capped. The key for Wagner is to continue improving defensively because he can be a complete two-way star moving forward.
11. Alperen Sengun
2024-25 Season Statistics: 19.1 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Alperen Sengun is blossoming into one of the most unique bigs in the NBA, a player who blends old-school post skills with some creative playmaking. The Rockets’ offense often flows through him, and his ability to punish smaller defenders while finding cutters has drawn natural Jokic comparisons.
He may not be at that level yet, but Sengun’s trajectory screams future All-Star mainstay. We expect the Turkish center to reach another level in 2025-26 as he builds upon his EuroBasket experience.
12. OG Anunoby
2024-25 Season Statistics: 18.0 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.9 BPG
OG Anunoby isn’t going to wow you with gaudy scoring numbers, but his defensive impact makes him one of the most valuable wings in the NBA. In New York, the British two-way star has proven capable of hitting timely shots while locking down opposing stars on a nightly basis.
He’s a glue guy who wins games for you while flying under the radar, and his presence is felt beyond the box score. The Knicks paid a pretty penny to get Anunoby on board before last season, and if they end up winning a ring, it will be proven to be the right move.
13. Lauri Markkanen
2024-25 Season Statistics: 19.0 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Finnish star Lauri Markkanen has become one of the league’s most reliable scoring forwards, with a combination of shooting and size that makes him a nightmare matchup. Utah may not be a great team right now, but Lauri’s individual growth has been undeniable.
Despite having a down year in 2024-25, Markkanen has sharpened his off-the-dribble game and become more physical inside. At 7 feet tall with range, Lauri is a mismatch waiting to happen for anyone. Hopefully, he can be a part of a playoff team at some point next season.
14. Rudy Gobert
2024-25 Season Statistics: 12.0 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.4 BPG
Rudy Gobert’s offense is certainly limited, and he often faces criticism from pundits and even his colleagues, but his defensive presence is still elite. The Frenchman continues to anchor Minnesota’s defense as one of the league’s premier rim protectors and rebounders.
While the Timberwolves rely on Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle to carry the scoring load, Gobert ensures that opponents never have an easy trip to the basket, making him invaluable even without a go-to offensive game.
15. Kristaps Porzingis
2024-25 Season Statistics: 19.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.5 BPG
When healthy, Kristaps Porzingis is still one of the most unique players in basketball. His ability to stretch the floor as a true 7’3” sharpshooter while also protecting the rim makes him a rare two-way weapon. That is why the Atlanta Hawks decided to take a gamble on bringing him on board this offseason.
Injuries remain the only thing holding him back from climbing higher on this list, but when he’s on the court, his impact is undeniable. Hopefully, the Latvian can overcome nagging injuries and finally get on the floor with skill and presence.
