The Best NBA Player From Every Country In 2024-25

The 2024-25 NBA season is packed with international talent, featuring 125 players from 43 different countries. Whether they’re leading their teams or making a name for themselves, these players are proving just how global the league has become. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best players from each country, highlighting those who are making the biggest impact this season. From household names to rising stars, these guys are representing their nations in a major way on the court.

Requirements: We use the best players for each country based on where they are born. For example, Karl-Anthony Towns was born in Edison, New Jersey, which means he will be counted as American, even though he plays for the Dominican Republic.

Another example is Kyrie Irving. As he played for Team USA at the Olympics, he was born in Melbourne, Australia, so we will count him as a player from Australia.

Angola – Bruno Fernando

Bruno Fernando, now with the Toronto Raptors, is looking to carve out a steady role in the 2024-25 season. Standing at 6’9” and known for his strength and athleticism, Fernando provides solid rim protection and rebounding when given the opportunity. While he’s still fighting for more playing time, his hustle and physicality make him a valuable bench piece as the Raptors aim to improve their depth in the frontcourt this season.

Australia – Kyrie Irving

Honorable Mentions From Australia: Josh Giddey, Josh Green, Dante Exum, Ben Simmons, Patty Mills

Kyrie Irving, for the 2024-25 season, is expected to continue his crucial role alongside Luka Doncic, making the Mavericks serious contenders again. His dynamic scoring and playmaking will be vital for Dallas as they try to get back to the NBA Finals.

Australia’s NBA presence goes beyond Kyrie, with Josh Giddey now a rising star in Chicago, running the Bulls’ offense with his elite passing. Josh Green is improving on both ends for Charlotte, while Ben Simmons, in Brooklyn, is focused on defense and playmaking as he looks to regain form. Patty Mills brings leadership and shooting to Utah off the bench.

Austria – Jakob Poeltl

Jakob Poeltl has quietly become one of the most reliable big men in the league. Holding it down for the Toronto Raptors, he is a rock on defense and a beast in the paint, shooting an efficient 65.6% from the field last year. He doesn’t need to score 20 points to make a difference—he’s all about setting screens, grabbing boards, and protecting the rim. For the Raptors, he’s the kind of player who does the dirty work, and they’ll need every bit of that grit as they try to push back into playoff contention.

Bahamas – Deandre Ayton

Honorable Mentions From Bahamas: Buddy Hield, Kai Jones

Deandre Ayton is the standout from the Bahamas, now playing his second season with the Trail Blazers. He’s an essential piece for the Blazers as they try to rebuild, and this season could be his chance to really take the next step as one of the league’s top centers.

Alongside Ayton, Buddy Hield continues to light it up from beyond the arc, now with the Warriors, while Kai Jones is still a developing talent but has the athleticism to make an impact down the line. These three players are putting the Bahamas on the NBA map, each contributing in their own way.

Belgium – Toumani Camara

Honorable Mention From Belgium: Ajay Mitchell

Toumani Camara from the Trail Blazers is one of the rising talents coming out of Belgium. After being traded as part of the Damian Lillard deal, he’s hoping to carve out a role in Portland. In his rookie season, Camara showed flashes of his versatility, offering solid defense and hustle plays. Although he’s still finding his place in the NBA, his potential is evident, and with more playing time, he could develop into a reliable two-way player.

Belgium also has Ajay Mitchell, a young guard who is still early in his career but has shown promise in college last season. These two represent Belgium’s growing presence in the NBA, with the potential to make a real impact as their careers progress.

Bosnia and Herzegovina – Jusuf Nurkic

 Honorable Mention From Bosnia and Herzegovina: Karlo Matković

Jusuf Nurkic remains the top player from Bosnia and Herzegovina, now playing for the Phoenix Suns. While he’s not the flashiest scorer, his presence in the paint as a strong rebounder and defender is crucial for Phoenix. His passing ability as a big man also helps open up the offense. Nurkic’s steady production makes him a key piece for the Suns as they aim to stay competitive in the Western Conference.

Karlo Matković, another player from Bosnia, is still developing but has potential as he continues to grow in the league.

Brazil – Gui Santos

Gui Santos, with the Golden State Warriors, is one of the top young talents coming out of Brazil. Still early in his NBA journey, Santos has been working to find his role with the Warriors. He’s known for his versatility, showing flashes of potential both as a scorer and a defender. His time on the court is still limited, but with the Warriors’ development system, he’s in a great position to continue growing his game and contribute more as he matures.

Brazil hasn’t produced as many NBA stars recently, but Gui Santos could be part of the next wave of talent from the country, adding to Brazil’s long basketball history.

Cameroon – Joel Embiid

Honorable Mentions From Cameroon: Pascal Siakam, Christian Koloko, Yves Missi

For the 2024-25 season, Joel Embiid is once again expected to dominate as the top player from Cameroon, solidifying his role as one of the best big men in the NBA. Despite past injury concerns, he remains the focal point for the 76ers and will be crucial to their success. Pascal Siakam, now with the Indiana Pacers, will continue to lead with his all-around game. Meanwhile, younger players like Christian Koloko and Yves Missi are poised to develop further and could play bigger roles in the future.

Canada – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Honorable Mentions From Canada: Jamal Murray, RJ Barrett, Andrew Wiggins, Dillon Brooks, Shaedon Sharpe

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has become the clear leader among Canadian NBA players. SGA’s ability to take over games on both ends of the floor makes him a star, and as the leader of the young Thunder, his ceiling looks higher every season.

Canada’s roster of talent doesn’t stop with SGA. Jamal Murray is still fresh off helping the Denver Nuggets win their first NBA championship in 2023, showing he’s a clutch performer in big moments. Andrew Wiggins also continues to be a starter for the Warriors, blending his athleticism and defense with some scoring. RJ Barrett, meanwhile, keeps improving as a solid cornerstone option for the Raptors.

Defensive specialists like Dillon Brooks and Luguentz Dort add depth to Canada’s presence in the NBA, while younger talents like Bennedict Mathurin, Shaedon Sharpe, Andrew Nembhard and more are starting to make waves too. Whether it’s veteran leadership from Kelly Olynyk or the rising stars, Canada’s footprint in the league keeps growing.

China – Yongxi Cui

Yongxi Cui is currently representing China in the NBA as part of the Brooklyn Nets roster. Although he hasn’t had much playing time yet, Cui is known for his size and versatility. At 6’7″, he’s got a strong physical presence and the ability to play both forward positions, but he’s still adjusting to the NBA level. China doesn’t have as many NBA players as in past years, but Cui is looking to make his mark and develop into a key role player over time.

Croatia – Bojan Bogdanovic

Honorable Mentions From Croatia: Dario Saric, Ivica Zubac

Bojan Bogdanovic, now with the Brooklyn Nets, is expected to play a significant role as a veteran shooter, helping Brooklyn’s rebuilding efforts after being acquired in the blockbuster Mikal Bridges trade. At 35, his leadership and ability to space the floor will be key as he looks to maintain his production.

Meanwhile, Dario Saric’s move to the Denver Nuggets positions him as a versatile stretch big who can contribute off the bench, while Ivica Zubac remains a defensive anchor and rebounding machine for the LA Clippers.

Czech Republic – Vit Krejci

Vit Krejci, currently with the Atlanta Hawks, had a solid finish to the 2023-24 season. After joining the Hawks in December from the G-League, he averaged 6.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists over 22 games. With versatility and size at 6’8″, Krejci earned himself a new four-year contract with Atlanta this past offseason. Though he’s not a star, he’s expected to be a valuable depth piece as the Hawks continue to develop their young core.

Democratic Republic Of The Congo – Jonathan Kuminga

Honorable Mentions From the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Oscar Tshiebwe

Jonathan Kuminga is continuing to develop into a key player for the Golden State Warriors. In the 2023-24 season, he had his best year yet, averaging 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists over 74 games. With athleticism and potential, Kuminga is still working on his consistency, but his ability to finish at the rim and contribute on defense has made him a valuable piece for the Warriors. As Golden State transitions into a new era, Kuminga is expected to play a larger role moving forward.

Oscar Tshiebwe, though not as established in the league, is another player from the DRC to keep an eye on. He’s still working his way into the NBA after joining the Utah Jazz, but his physicality and rebounding skills have him positioned as a promising big man for the future.

Dominican Republic – Al Horford

Honorable Mentions From the Dominican Republic: Chris Duarte

For the 2024-25 season, Al Horford remains the most experienced player from the Dominican Republic, continuing to play a crucial role for the Celtics with his leadership and ability to stretch the floor. Even at 38, his defense and three-point shooting will be key for Boston. Chris Duarte, with the Bulls, is expected to contribute more as a 3-and-D player.

Finland – Lauri Markkanen

Lauri Markkanen is set to remain a key piece for the Utah Jazz after a strong 2023-24 season. His scoring versatility and rebounding make him essential to the team’s plans, especially after signing a five-year, $238 million extension, including $220 million guaranteed. As the Jazz continue developing their young talent, Markkanen will play a critical role in their success, both as a leader and as the focal point on offense, ensuring they stay competitive in the Western Conference.

France – Victor Wembanyama

Honorable Mentions From France: Zaccharie Risacher, Alex Sarr, Rudy Gobert, Bilal Coulibaly, Ousmane Dieng

Victor Wembanyama’s impact continues to grow as he becomes the cornerstone of the Spurs after an incredible rookie season. Averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 3.6 blocks, his versatility has earned him Rookie of the Year honors, showing why he’s a generational talent. The future of French basketball also looks bright with Zaccharie Risacher and Alex Sarr, the top two picks of the 2024 Draft, joining the Hawks and Wizards respectively. Alongside veterans like Rudy Gobert, France’s influence in the NBA remains strong.

Georgia – Goga Bitadze

Honorable Mentions From Georgia: Sandro Mamukelashvili

Goga Bitadze continues to be a solid contributor for the Orlando Magic, offering reliable defense and rebounding as a backup big. While his numbers don’t jump off the page, his rim protection and ability to grab boards make him valuable when called upon. Sandro Mamukelashvili is steadily developing with the San Antonio Spurs, providing versatility with his shooting and ball-handling. Together, Bitadze and Mamukelashvili proudly represent Georgia in the NBA, playing key roles for their respective teams.

Germany – Franz Wagner

Honorable Mentions From Germany: Dennis Schröder, Moritz Wagner, Maxi Kleber, Isaiah Hartenstein

Franz Wagner continues to establish himself as the centerpiece of the Orlando Magic’s rebuild, following an impressive 2023-24 season. His versatile scoring and playmaking have him on a trajectory to become one of the league’s top young forwards. In addition to Wagner, other notable German players include Dennis Schröder, who provides veteran leadership, and key role players like Moritz Wagner, Maxi Kleber, and Isaiah Hartenstein, each contributing in important ways for their respective teams across the NBA.

Greece – Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo is easily the top player from Greece and one of the most dominant forces in the NBA. Giannis continues to lead the Bucks as one of the best teams in the league, and his two-way play keeps him in the MVP conversation year after year. His ability to impact both offense and defense makes him a true game-changer for the Bucks.

Israel – Deni Avdija

Deni Avdija was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in a significant offseason move. The Washington Wizards sent Avdija to Portland in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon, the 14th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and future draft picks. Avdija, coming off a breakout year, has become a valuable young wing player. His ability to contribute across the board makes him a key part of Portland’s young core as they continue to rebuild.

Italy – Simone Fontecchio

Simone Fontecchio re-signed with the Detroit Pistons during the 2024 offseason, agreeing to a two-year, $16 million deal. After being traded from the Utah Jazz earlier in the year, Fontecchio quickly made an impact for Detroit. His ability to space the floor and contribute on both ends makes him a key part of the Pistons’ rotation as they continue their rebuild.

Jamaica – Nick Richards

Nick Richards is expected to play a growing role for the Charlotte Hornets in 2024-25 as he continues to develop his skills. With his strong presence in the paint, he’ll provide valuable shot-blocking and rebounding off the bench, giving Charlotte key depth in their frontcourt. The Hornets are looking for Richards to further establish himself as an impactful rotational big man, focusing on improving his consistency and expanding his offensive game to complement his defensive strengths.

Japan – Rui Hachimura

Honorable Mention From Japan: Yuki Kawamura

Rui Hachimura is set to continue playing a key role for the Lakers, offering versatility as a scorer and solid defensive presence off the bench. His contributions will be vital as Los Angeles pushes for another deep playoff run. Yuki Kawamura, fresh off signing a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, will aim to prove himself in the NBA. His quickness and playmaking ability impressed during the preseason, and Memphis will look to develop him as a future contributor while he continues to adjust to the league.

Latvia – Kristaps Porzingis

Kristaps Porzingis is expected to continue making a major impact for the Celtics following their 2024 NBA Championship run. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and protect the rim with shot-blocking has made him an ideal complement to Boston’s core. Going into the 2024-25 season, Porzingis will be a key factor in Boston’s title defense, offering versatility on both ends of the court and a championship pedigree that solidifies his importance alongside Jayson Tatum and the rest of the team.

Lithuania – Domantas Sabonis

Honorable Mention From Lithuania: Jonas Valanciunas

Domantas Sabonis is expected to continue leading the Sacramento Kings, showcasing his versatility as one of the most impactful big men in the league. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate will keep the Kings competitive in the loaded Western Conference. Meanwhile, Jonas Valanciunas, now with the Washington Wizards, brings his trademark physicality and consistency to a young roster. His rebounding and scoring inside, combined with his veteran experience, will be key as the Wizards look to develop their young core around him.

Mali – Adama Sanogo

Honorable Mention From Mali: N’Faly Dante

Adama Sanogo is expected to continue developing as a key contributor for the Chicago Bulls, providing valuable depth at the center position with his physical play and rebounding. As he gains more experience, Sanogo’s role could expand within the Bulls’ rotation. N’Faly Dante, after signing a two-way contract with the Houston Rockets, brings size and rebounding ability. He will look to make an impact while splitting time between the Rockets and their G League affiliate, aiming to prove himself and carve out a role in the NBA.

Montenegro – Nikola Vucevic

Nikola Vucevic remains a steady force for the Chicago Bulls, continuing to put up solid numbers despite the team’s struggles. His ability to score, rebound, and stretch the floor keeps him valuable as a double-double machine. However, with the Bulls clearly in a rebuilding phase and far from contending, Vucevic finds himself in a tough situation. His experience and skill make him a key piece, but it’s uncertain how long he’ll stay part of Chicago’s future plans as they focus on younger talent.

Netherlands – Jesse Edwards

Honorable Mention From Netherlands: Quinten Post

Jesse Edwards, now with the Minnesota Timberwolves, is one of the two Dutch players in the NBA. After going undrafted, Edwards signed with the Wolves and is working to establish himself as a solid rotation player in the league. Alongside him is Quinten Post, another promising player from the Netherlands, who is with the Golden State Warriors, contributing with his size and shooting ability. Both players represent the growing presence of Dutch talent in the NBA.

New Zealand – Steven Adams

Steven Adams was traded to the Houston Rockets during the 2024 season in a deal that sent Victor Oladipo to the Memphis Grizzlies. Adams missed the entire 2023-24 season due to a knee injury. Though coming from injury, the Rockets are banking on his toughness and leadership for the future. Adams’ presence in the paint remains a significant asset, and he’s expected to make a full recovery this season.

Nigeria – Precious Achiuwa

Honorable Mentions From Nigeria: Josh Okogie, Charles Bassey

Precious Achiuwa is expected to continue his key role for the New York Knicks, offering versatility and a strong inside presence. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor, with rebounding and defense, makes him valuable in the Knicks’ rotation. Josh Okogie remains a vital piece for the Phoenix Suns with his defensive intensity and hustle, while Charles Bassey provides solid minutes as a backup center for the San Antonio Spurs, contributing with his size and energy off the bench.

Portugal – Neemias Queta

Neemias Queta represents Portugal in the NBA, currently playing for the Boston Celtics. In the 2023-24 season, Queta spent time developing his game, splitting time between the G League and NBA. Having size and shot-blocking ability, he provides solid depth in the Celtics’ frontcourt and is working to carve out a more consistent role in their rotation as the team competes for another championship run.

Senegal – Mouhamed Gueye

Mouhamed Gueye had a solid rookie season with the Atlanta Hawks after being picked 39th overall in the 2023 Draft. The Hawks are excited about his future, especially as he works on improving his offense. Gueye is one of those guys who could carve out a bigger role as he keeps developing.

Serbia – Nikola Jokic

Honorable Mentions From Serbia: Bogdan Bogdanovic, Vasilije Micic, Nikola Jovic, Nikola Topic, Tristan Vukcevic

Nikola Jokic remains the cornerstone of the Denver Nuggets, coming off another MVP season. His ability to dominate as both a scorer and playmaker keeps Denver as a top contender in the league. Alongside Jokic, Serbia’s presence in the NBA is growing. Bogdan Bogdanovic plays a crucial role for the Hawks, while young players like Vasilije Micic, Nikola Jovic, and rising talents such as Nikola Topic and Tristan Vukcevic are steadily making their mark, adding depth to Serbia’s representation in the league.

Slovenia – Luka Doncic

Honorable Mention From Slovenia: Vlatko Cancar

Luka Doncic is expected to continue his dominance for the Mavericks in the 2024-25 season, remaining one of the top MVP contenders with his elite scoring and playmaking abilities. As the centerpiece of Dallas’ offense, his impact on the game is undeniable. Meanwhile, Vlatko Cancar will continue providing key depth for the Denver Nuggets, offering solid minutes off the bench as part of their rotation. Both players are crucial to Slovenia’s strong representation in the NBA.

South Sudan – Duop Reath

Duop Reath, representing South Sudan, is currently playing for the Portland Trail Blazers. Reath’s strong performance in international competitions and his time in Australia’s NBL have helped him land an opportunity in the NBA. Known for his size and versatility, Reath is still finding his footing in the league but has shown flashes of potential as a solid contributor in Portland’s frontcourt.

Spain – Santi Aldama

Santi Aldama has been making strides with the Memphis Grizzlies, representing Spain in the NBA. He’s continuing to show growth as a versatile forward. His shooting ability and mobility make him a valuable piece for the Grizzlies’ rotation, and he’s becoming a more consistent contributor for the team.

St. Lucia – Chris Boucher

Chris Boucher is expected to continue being a key contributor for the Toronto Raptors, bringing energy and defensive intensity off the bench. His shot-blocking ability and versatility on both ends of the floor make him a valuable asset, whether it’s protecting the rim or stretching the floor with his shooting. As one of the most prominent players representing St. Lucia, Boucher’s role with the Raptors will remain crucial as they look to compete in the Eastern Conference.

Sudan – Bol Bol

Bol Bol is expected to remain an intriguing prospect for the Phoenix Suns, offering energy off the bench with his unique combination of length and shooting ability. His ability to shoot from deep adds versatility to his game, but consistency remains a challenge. With his potential largely untapped, the 2024-25 season could be a pivotal year for Bol as he works to find a more prominent role within the Suns’ rotation and capitalize on his physical tools and skill set.

Sweden – Bobi Klintman

Bobi Klintman, drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 2024 NBA Draft, is about to make his mark in the league. Coming from Australia’s NBL, he can be an athletic presence on the frontcourt. Now with the Pistons, Klintman is a versatile forward known for his size and shooting touch. Detroit is banking on his potential as he adjusts to the NBA and looks to contribute to their rebuilding efforts.

Switzerland – Clint Capela

Clint Capela remains the anchor of the Atlanta Hawks’ defense, known for his elite rebounding and rim protection. As Switzerland’s only NBA player, Capela consistently controls the paint, providing valuable shot-blocking and interior defense. His ability to finish around the rim and dominate the boards makes him a crucial part of Atlanta’s success, and he will continue to be a key figure in their efforts to compete in the Eastern Conference in the 2024-25 season.

Turkey – Alperen Sengun

Alperen Sengun is set to continue his rise as a key player for the Houston Rockets after a stellar 2023-24 season. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate from the center position has made him a central part of Houston’s young core. With a new five-year, $185 million extension, Sengun’s future with the Rockets is secure, positioning him as a cornerstone for their long-term plans. As he continues to develop, Sengun will be crucial in Houston’s efforts to climb the ranks in the Western Conference.

Ukraine – Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk

Honorable Mention From Ukraine: Alex Len

Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk played a solid role during the 2023-24 NBA season, splitting time between the Charlotte Hornets and the Boston Celtics. With his shooting and versatility, Mykhailiuk provides a steady presence off the bench for the Jazz now, especially as a floor spacer. Alex Len, meanwhile, is a veteran big man currently with the Sacramento Kings. Len continues to offer a reliable option in the frontcourt, using his size and experience to contribute on both ends of the floor. Both players are key representatives of Ukrainian basketball in the NBA.

United Kingdom – OG Anunoby

Honorable Mention From the United Kingdom: Jeremy Sochan

OG Anunoby is expected to play a vital role for the Knicks in the 2024-25 season, with his elite defense and consistent three-point shooting making him one of the team’s key players. After securing his massive five-year extension, Anunoby will be looked upon to elevate his offensive game while maintaining his reputation as a lockdown defender. Meanwhile, Jeremy Sochan is projected to take a significant step forward with the Spurs, as he continues developing into a versatile two-way player, making him a core part of San Antonio’s rebuild.

United States – LeBron James

Honorable Mentions From the United States: Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards, Anthony Davis

LeBron James is expected to continue being a dominant force for the Lakers in the 2024-25 season, even at 39. His leadership and all-around game will be crucial as Los Angeles aims for another deep playoff run. Alongside LeBron, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards, and Anthony Davis represent the elite U.S. talent in the NBA, each of them poised to make a significant impact for their respective teams as they continue to perform at the highest level in the league.