The Best International Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

The NBA has long been a global game, but in the 21st century, international players have taken it to another level. From MVP winners like Dirk Nowitzki and Giannis Antetokounmpo to dominant forces like Pau Gasol and Nikola Jokic, players born outside the U.S. have not only found success but have redefined the league. Each season has its own standout, showcasing the incredible talent coming from across the globe. In this article, we’ll explore the best international player of every season this century, reflecting on their impact, individual accolades, and how they’ve helped shape the NBA as we know it.

2000-01 Season – Dikembe Mutombo

Stats: 10.0 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 2.7 BPG, 1.1 SPG, 0.8 APG

Achievements And Awards: Defensive Player of the Year, NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, NBA All-Defensive First Team

Dikembe Mutombo was an absolute monster defensively during the 2000-01 season. He locked down the paint like nobody else, averaging a whopping 13.5 rebounds and nearly 3 blocks per game. The man won his fourth Defensive Player of the Year award, and it felt like no one could get past him. After getting traded to the 76ers midseason, Mutombo was a huge part of their run to the NBA Finals, where they eventually lost to the Lakers.

Even though Philly came up short, Mutombo’s impact was undeniable. He was the defensive backbone of that squad, earning another All-Star appearance and piling up accolades left and right. His rim protection and rebounding were key to keeping the Sixers competitive, and he cemented his place as one of the greatest defensive forces of all time.

2001-02 Season – Dirk Nowitzki

Stats: 23.4 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

Dirk Nowitzki made a massive leap in the 2001-02 season, establishing himself as one of the best scorers in the league. He averaged 23.4 points and nearly 10 rebounds per game while shooting lights out from the floor. Dirk’s unique ability to shoot over defenders from anywhere on the court made him almost unguardable, and his versatility as a 7-footer was unheard of at the time.

The Mavericks finished with 57 wins that season, making a deep playoff run, thanks largely to Dirk’s scoring and leadership. His performance earned him his first All-Star selection and solidified his status as one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the NBA.

2002-03 Season – Dirk Nowitzki

Stats: 25.1 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

Dirk Nowitzki continued to elevate his game during the 2002-03 season, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier scorers. He upped his scoring to 25.1 points per game while still pulling down nearly 10 boards a night. With his deadly shooting range and ability to create his own shot as a 7-footer, Dirk was an absolute nightmare for defenders.

The Mavericks rode his stellar play to a 60-win season, making it all the way to the Western Conference Finals. Although they didn’t make the Finals, Dirk’s consistent dominance earned him another All-Star appearance and kept Dallas in the mix as one of the top teams in the league. At this point, Dirk was showing he was more than just a shooter—he was becoming a full-blown superstar.

2003-04 Season – Peja Stojakovic

Stats: 24.2 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 2.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

Peja Stojakovic had a breakout season in 2003-04, becoming one of the league’s most lethal scorers. Known for his incredible shooting stroke, Peja averaged 24.2 points per game and was a consistent threat from beyond the arc, knocking down threes at a 43.3% clip. His scoring ability carried the Sacramento Kings to 55 wins, and his sharpshooting made him one of the most feared offensive players in the league.

That season, Stojakovic earned his third consecutive All-Star selection and was named to the All-NBA Second Team, proving his value as one of the top international players of the time. His performance helped solidify the Kings as a powerhouse in the West, and his deep range and scoring touch became trademarks of his game.

2004-05 Season – Steve Nash

Stats: 15.5 PPG, 11.5 APG, 3.3 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

Steve Nash took the league by storm in the 2004-05 season, earning his first MVP award and leading the Phoenix Suns to an NBA-best 62 wins. Nash revolutionized the game with his incredible court vision and playmaking, averaging 11.5 assists per game, while also scoring efficiently with 15.5 points per game. His ability to run the Suns’ fast-paced offense made Phoenix one of the most exciting teams to watch, and Nash was at the heart of it all.

His leadership and unselfish play earned him All-NBA First Team honors and solidified his place as one of the best point guards in the league. Nash’s MVP campaign put international players on the map, proving that he wasn’t just a great player—he was the engine that powered one of the best teams in the league.

2005-06 Season – Steve Nash

Stats: 18.8 PPG, 10.5 APG, 4.2 RPG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

Steve Nash did it again in 2005-06, snagging his second straight MVP award and showing everyone that his first one wasn’t a fluke. Nash was an absolute wizard on the court, averaging 18.8 points and 10.5 assists per game, running the Suns’ offense with pinpoint precision. His shooting was as elite as ever, knocking down big shots while keeping his team in the mix every night.

Nash’s ability to elevate his teammates and run Phoenix’s fast-paced offense made the Suns one of the most dangerous teams in the league. Even though they didn’t make it to the Finals, Nash’s leadership and court vision kept the Suns at the top of the Western Conference. Back-to-back MVPs put Nash in rare air, and his playmaking magic cemented his place as one of the greatest international players to ever do it.

2006-07 Season – Dirk Nowitzki

Stats: 24.6 PPG, 8.9 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

Dirk Nowitzki finally got the recognition he deserved in 2006-07, winning his first MVP award. He led the Mavericks to an NBA-best 67 wins, and his elite scoring and rebounding made him unstoppable that season. Averaging 24.6 points and nearly 9 rebounds, Dirk was deadly from anywhere on the floor, torching defenders with his signature fadeaway and three-point shooting.

Even though the Mavericks suffered a shocking first-round playoff exit, Dirk’s regular season was one for the ages. His MVP win solidified him as one of the best players in the league, and it was a huge moment for international basketball. Dirk’s blend of size, skill, and shooting made him a matchup nightmare, and 2006-07 was the year he officially became an NBA legend.

2007-08 Season – Manu Ginóbili

Stats: 19.5 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: Sixth Man of the Year, NBA All-Star, All-NBA Third Team

Manu Ginóbili was the ultimate spark plug for the San Antonio Spurs in the 2007-08 season. Coming off the bench, Manu averaged 19.5 points, nearly 5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, proving that he was more than just a role player—he was a game-changer. His crafty drives, clutch shooting, and relentless energy made him the best sixth man in the league, earning him the Sixth Man of the Year award.

Ginóbili’s impact went beyond the box score. Whether he was starting or coming off the bench, he made the Spurs go. That year, he was also named to his first All-Star team and landed on the All-NBA Third Team. Manu’s all-around play and leadership helped keep the Spurs among the league’s elite, and his season was a reminder that he was one of the best international players to ever grace the NBA.

2008-09 Season – Dirk Nowitzki

Stats: 25.9 PPG, 8.4 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

Dirk Nowitzki was as consistent as ever during the 2008-09 season, continuing to put up elite numbers. With 25.9 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, Dirk was once again the go-to guy for the Mavericks, leading them deep into the Western Conference playoffs. His ability to hit clutch shots, stretch the floor with his shooting, and still dominate in the post made him nearly impossible to guard.

Though the Mavericks didn’t make it to the Finals, Dirk’s play earned him yet another All-NBA First Team selection and another All-Star appearance. His leadership and scoring kept Dallas competitive, and his international influence continued to grow as he solidified his legacy as one of the best to ever play the game. This was just another chapter in Dirk’s incredible career, showing he wasn’t slowing down anytime soon.

2009-10 Season – Dirk Nowitzki

Stats: 25.0 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

Dirk Nowitzki continued to be a dominant force in the 2009-10 season, showing no signs of slowing down. Averaging 25 points and nearly 8 rebounds a game, Dirk was the heart and soul of the Mavericks. His deadly shooting touch and ability to score from all over the floor made him one of the toughest players to defend, and he once again carried Dallas deep into the playoffs.

Though the Mavericks fell short in the postseason, Dirk’s individual brilliance earned him yet another All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA First Team. His ability to remain consistent year after year was a testament to his work ethic and skill, and he was firmly cementing his place as one of the greatest international players in NBA history.

2010-11 Season – Dirk Nowitzki

Stats: 23.0 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 2.6 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA Champion, NBA Finals MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

The 2010-11 season was the year Dirk Nowitzki finally got over the hump and led the Dallas Mavericks to their first NBA championship. Dirk was phenomenal all year long, but he took his game to another level in the playoffs. Averaging 23 points and 7 rebounds during the regular season, Dirk’s leadership and clutch performances were crucial in the Mavs’ legendary playoff run.

In the NBA Finals, Dirk and the Mavs shocked the world by defeating LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and the Miami Heat’s “Big Three.” Dirk’s iconic Finals performances earned him the Finals MVP award, capping off the greatest season of his career. This title cemented his legacy as not just one of the best international players ever but as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

2011-12 Season – Tony Parker

Stats: 18.3 PPG, 7.7 APG, 2.9 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

In the 2011-12 season, Tony Parker was the engine that powered the San Antonio Spurs. Averaging 18.3 points and 7.7 assists per game, Parker played one of the best seasons of his career. His quickness, court vision, and ability to get to the rim were unmatched, and he was the driving force behind the Spurs’ 50-win season, which secured the top seed in the Western Conference.

While San Antonio fell short in the Western Conference Finals, Parker’s stellar play earned him an All-NBA Second Team selection and yet another All-Star nod. As a veteran leader, his steady hand and elite playmaking kept the Spurs competitive, and he further solidified his legacy as one of the best international point guards to ever play the game.

2012-13 Season – Marc Gasol

Stats: 14.1 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA Defensive Player of the Year, NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, All-Defensive Second Team

Marc Gasol had his breakout season in 2012-13, anchoring the Memphis Grizzlies with his elite defensive presence. Gasol’s ability to protect the rim and direct the defense earned him Defensive Player of the Year honors, and he was the key reason the Grizzlies had one of the best defenses in the league that year. Averaging 14.1 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists, Marc wasn’t just a shot-blocker—his basketball IQ and passing ability made him a standout on both ends of the floor.

Gasol’s impact went beyond the stat sheet, as his leadership and defense led the Grizzlies to a 56-win season and a deep playoff run, where they reached the Western Conference Finals. His Defensive Player of the Year win put him on the map as one of the best big men in the game, and his All-Star appearance and All-NBA Second Team selection confirmed his place among the league’s elite international players.

2013-14 Season – Tony Parker

Stats: 16.7 PPG, 5.7 APG, 2.3 RPG, 0.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA Champion, NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

Tony Parker once again proved his brilliance in the 2013-14 season, leading the San Antonio Spurs to their fifth NBA championship. While his stats—16.7 points and 5.7 assists—weren’t the flashiest, Parker’s leadership and playmaking were critical to the Spurs’ success. His ability to control the tempo, find open teammates, and score in key moments made him the perfect leader for the Spurs’ well-oiled machine.

Parker’s performance throughout the playoffs, including his steady play in the Finals, helped the Spurs dominate the Miami Heat, earning redemption after their heartbreaking loss in 2013. This championship win solidified Parker’s legacy, and he earned yet another All-Star appearance and an All-NBA Second Team selection as a reward for his efforts.

2014-15 Season – Pau Gasol

Stats: 18.5 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.9 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

Pau Gasol had a resurgence during the 2014-15 season, putting up some of the best numbers of his career in his first season with the Chicago Bulls. Gasol averaged 18.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and nearly 2 blocks per game, anchoring the Bulls’ frontcourt and giving them a strong inside presence. His ability to score from the post, rebound, and protect the rim made him one of the top big men in the league.

Gasol’s play earned him another All-Star selection—his fifth—and a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. He was instrumental in leading the Bulls to 50 wins and a solid playoff run. Even in his mid-30s, Pau was showing that he could still dominate at a high level, further cementing his legacy as one of the best international players to ever play in the NBA.

2015-16 Season – Giannis Antetokounmpo

Stats: 16.9 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2015-16 season marked the turning point for Giannis Antetokounmpo, where he began to show signs of the dominant player he would become. Giannis averaged 16.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game while continuing to showcase his unique ability to impact both ends of the floor. His freakish athleticism, combined with his ability to play multiple positions, made him one of the most versatile players in the league.

Although the Milwaukee Bucks didn’t have much team success, missing the playoffs with a 33-49 record, Giannis’ development was clear. He recorded his first triple-double that season and displayed the all-around skill set that would soon make him one of the NBA’s top players. This season was a preview of what was to come, as Giannis was laying the groundwork for his rise to superstardom.

2016-17 Season – Giannis Antetokounmpo

Stats: 22.9 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.9 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, NBA All-Defensive Second Team, Most Improved Player

In the 2016-17 season, Giannis Antetokounmpo fully emerged as one of the league’s brightest stars. Taking a massive leap, Giannis posted career highs across the board, averaging 22.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and leading the Milwaukee Bucks on both ends of the floor. His combination of size, speed, and skill made him a matchup nightmare, earning him his first All-Star appearance.

Giannis’ performance didn’t go unnoticed, as he was named to the All-NBA Second Team, the NBA All-Defensive Second Team, and was awarded the Most Improved Player. This season marked the official start of his journey toward superstardom, as he transformed from a promising young player into the cornerstone of the Bucks’ future. His dominance on both ends made it clear that Giannis was here to stay as one of the league’s elite.

2017-18 Season – Giannis Antetokounmpo

Stats: 26.9 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, NBA All-Defensive Second Team

Giannis Antetokounmpo continued his rise to superstardom in the 2017-18 season, further establishing himself as one of the NBA’s elite. Averaging nearly 27 points and 10 rebounds per game, Giannis was a force on both ends of the court, using his length and athleticism to dominate in transition, in the paint, and on defense. His all-around game made him a nightmare for opponents, as he could score, rebound, and facilitate while also protecting the rim.

The Bucks made the playoffs once again, and while they didn’t go far, Giannis’ individual brilliance was undeniable. He earned his second consecutive All-Star selection and another All-NBA Second Team nod, while also being named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team for his contributions on defense. Giannis was clearly becoming one of the most dominant players in the league, and his rapid improvement made it clear that even bigger things were on the horizon.

2018-19 Season – Giannis Antetokounmpo

Stats: 27.7 PPG, 12.5 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, NBA All-Defensive First Team

The 2018-19 season marked Giannis Antetokounmpo’s official arrival as one of the best players in the world. Giannis won his first MVP award, putting up dominant stats across the board and leading the Milwaukee Bucks to the best record in the NBA with 60 wins. Averaging 27.7 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, Giannis was a force on both ends, showcasing his versatility and unmatched athleticism.

Giannis’ dominance wasn’t just about scoring—his defensive impact was just as important. He earned All-NBA First Team and NBA All-Defensive First Team honors, becoming the face of the Bucks’ resurgence. His leadership and relentless work ethic transformed Milwaukee into a true championship contender, and his MVP season set the stage for even more success in the years to come. This season was the beginning of Giannis’ reign as one of the most dominant international players of all time.

2019-20 Season – Giannis Antetokounmpo

Stats: 29.5 PPG, 13.6 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA MVP, NBA Defensive Player of the Year, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, NBA All-Defensive First Team

Giannis Antetokounmpo took his game to an even higher level in the 2019-20 season, becoming the third player in NBA history to win both the MVP and Defensive Player of the Year awards in the same season. Averaging a career-high 29.5 points and 13.6 rebounds, along with 5.6 assists, Giannis dominated both ends of the floor, leading the Bucks to the best record in the NBA for the second straight season.

His all-around play earned him All-NBA First Team and All-Defensive First Team honors, making him the undisputed best player on both ends of the court. Though the Bucks fell short in the playoffs, Giannis’ back-to-back MVP campaigns solidified his status as one of the league’s most unstoppable forces, and his defensive dominance only added to his growing legacy as one of the best international players ever.

2020-21 Season – Giannis Antetokounmpo

Achievements And Awards: NBA Champion, NBA Finals MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, NBA All-Defensive First Team

The 2020-21 season was Giannis Antetokounmpo’s crowning moment as he led the Milwaukee Bucks to their first NBA championship in 50 years. Giannis was dominant throughout the regular season, averaging 28.1 points, 11 rebounds, and nearly 6 assists per game, continuing to showcase his all-around brilliance on both ends of the floor. But it was in the playoffs where he truly cemented his legacy.

Giannis capped off an incredible Finals run by dropping 50 points in the decisive Game 6 against the Phoenix Suns, earning him Finals MVP honors. His dominance in the paint, relentless motor, and ability to take over games made him unstoppable. This season solidified Giannis’ place in NBA history, as he not only became an NBA champion but also further established himself as one of the best international players of all time.

2021-22 Season – Nikola Jokic

Stats: 27.1 PPG, 13.8 RPG, 7.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

Nikola Jokic dominated the 2021-22 season, securing his second consecutive MVP award. Jokic became the first player in NBA history to record over 2,000 points, 1,000 rebounds, and 500 assists in a single season. Averaging 27.1 points, nearly 14 rebounds, and close to 8 assists per game, Jokic’s all-around game made him the most valuable player in the league. His incredible court vision, scoring ability, and unique playmaking as a center made him impossible to defend.

Despite the Denver Nuggets missing key players like Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. for most of the season, Jokic carried the team to the playoffs, further cementing his status as one of the greatest international players in NBA history. His back-to-back MVP awards highlighted just how dominant and consistent Jokic had become, rewriting what’s expected of a big man in today’s NBA.

2022-23 Season – Nikola Jokic

Stats: 24.5 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 9.8 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA Champion, NBA Finals MVP, NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

Nikola Jokic had a legendary 2022-23 season, culminating in leading the Denver Nuggets to their first-ever NBA championship. Jokic averaged nearly a triple-double throughout the regular season with 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game. His unique ability to control the game with his passing, scoring, and basketball IQ made him the most versatile player in the league.

In the playoffs, Jokic took his game to another level, dominating every series and securing Finals MVP honors. His leadership, clutch performances, and all-around dominance propelled the Nuggets to the title. With his first championship and Finals MVP, Jokic solidified himself as one of the best players in the world and further enhanced his legacy as one of the greatest international stars to ever play the game.

2023-24 Season – Luka Doncic

Stats: 33.9 PPG, 9.8 APG, 9.2 RPG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team, MVP Runner-Up

Luka Doncic had a monster 2023-24 season, nearly averaging a triple-double while leading the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals. Posting an incredible 33.9 points, 9.8 assists, and 9.2 rebounds per game, Doncic was in MVP form all season long. His ability to take over games with his scoring and playmaking made him one of the most unstoppable players in the league.

Despite falling short of the MVP award, finishing as the runner-up to Nikola Jokic, Luka’s brilliance helped guide the Mavericks to their first Finals appearance since 2011. His leadership, clutch performances, and all-around play carried Dallas through the playoffs, cementing his place as one of the NBA’s elite. Though the Mavs didn’t win it all, Luka’s Finals run proved that he’s one of the top international players of his generation.