The NBA is more global than ever. The league announced Tuesday, October 22, 2025, that 135 international players are on opening-night rosters for the 2025-26 season, setting a new record and topping the previous high of 125.
The record-setting group represents 43 countries across six continents, marking the 12th consecutive season the league has featured over 100 international players.
Canada leads the way for the 12th straight year with 23 players, highlighted by reigning NBA champion and Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. France follows with 19, and Australia has 13.
A record 71 players hail from Europe, a continent that boasts stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece), Nikola Jokic (Serbia), Luka Doncic (Slovenia), and Victor Wembanyama (France).
The Atlanta Hawks feature a record-tying 10 international players, followed by the Portland Trail Blazers and Golden State Warriors with seven apiece.
The league continues its global push with three games scheduled outside the U.S. and Canada this season, including matchups in Mexico City, Berlin, and London.
