TOP 5: Which European country had the greatest impact on the NBA?

Which European country had the greatest impact on the NBA? This is a tough question, especially these days with hundreds of international players making their mark in the league, even from countries not traditionally seen as basketball powerhouses, like Latvia or Finland. In this article we are trying to identify TOP 5 European countries in the NBA. The NBA’s transformation into a global league started back in the late 1980s when the first proper bridge between the two continents was built and the first European stars entered the league.

In this list, we tried to figure out which country has had the greatest impact on the NBA over the last 25 years, starting from 1989 when the first European players joined. It’s a challenge because the first wave of players came from countries that don’t exist anymore. The first four players were from Yugoslavia (Vlade Divac, Dražen Petrović, Žarko Paspalj) and the USSR (Alexander Volkov).

In our humble opinion, Yugoslavia and its successor states top this list (Petrović, Divac, Kukoč, Stojaković, Nikola Jokić, Luka Dončić…). But if we consider each country individually, things get interesting. After the initial period of Yugoslav dominance, Spanish players took over (the Gasol brothers, Ricky Rubio, etc.). Now, France is making waves with two first overall draft picks in a row, and Victor Wembanyama could turn the league upside down.

In 2022, the National Basketball Association announced the results of the NBA 75 EURO Vote for the All-Time NBA European Team. The All-Time NBA European First Team consists of Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece), Luka Dončić (Slovenia), Pau Gasol (Spain), Dirk Nowitzki (Germany), and Tony Parker (France). Dirk received the most votes.

Obviously, there is no “Yugo” player in this selection. Let’s see the All-Time NBA European Second Team: Nikola Jokić (Serbia), Toni Kukoč (Croatia), Arvydas Sabonis (Lithuania), Peja Stojaković (Serbia), and Dražen Petrović (Croatia).

For now, let’s set aside the fact that this selection would be quite different two years later. It is logical that Nikola Jokić, as an NBA champion and three-time MVP winner, would not be left out of the First Team. Arguably, one could make a point that replacing Sabonis with Vlade Divac (Serbia) wouldn’t be blasphemous—just in terms of NBA career longevity, impact on teams he played in, etc. It would be interesting to have a hypothetical Yugoslavian Second NBA Team. If that country still existed, its impact would be so deep. Since that country doesn’t exist anymore, let’s look further.

So, it’s not easy to rank TOP 5 European countries in the NBA, with the greatest influence on the league, but we’ll give it a shot. Don’t get mad if you don’t agree with us. Remember, it’s just basketball, and we love a good debate. So, please leave a comment if you think we got something wrong.

Let’s dive in TOP 5 European countries in the NBA.

THE LIST: TOP 5 European countries in the NBA

5. SlOVENIA

Now comes the question of whether Slovenia or Greece should take the fifth spot in TOP 5 European countries in the NBA selection. Slovenia has Luka Dončić, a young superstar who has taken the NBA by storm with his incredible playmaking, scoring, and versatility. On the other hand, Greece has Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP and NBA champion whose dominance on both ends of the court has redefined what it means to be a modern basketball player. This was a tough decision. Ultimately, Slovenia edges out due to its broader array of impactful players.

Most impactful players:

• Luka Dončić: One of the brightest young stars in the NBA, Dončić has quickly become one of the league’s top players since being drafted in 2018. Known for his exceptional playmaking, scoring, and rebounding, Dončić has already earned multiple All-Star selections and is considered a potential future MVP.
• Goran Dragić: A skilled point guard, Dragić has had a successful NBA career, including an All-Star selection and playing a key role in the Miami Heat’s run to the NBA Finals in 2020. His leadership and experience have been valuable to every team he’s been on.
• Rasho Nesterović: A solid center, Nesterović played for several NBA teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, with whom he won an NBA championship. His defensive presence and rebounding were key assets throughout his career.
• Sasha Vujačić: Known for his clutch shooting and defense, Vujačić won two NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009 and 2010. His ability to hit big shots and play tough defense was crucial during the Lakers’ championship runs.
• Beno Udrih: A reliable point guard, Udrih won two NBA championships with the San Antonio Spurs in 2005 and 2007. His ability to provide solid minutes off the bench was crucial for the Spurs during their title runs.

Slovenia’s influence goes beyond just these players. Luka Dončić’s rapid rise to stardom has highlighted the impact young European players can have in the NBA, influencing scouting and draft strategies to place greater emphasis on European leagues.

Slovenian players have also been involved in memorable NBA moments. From Dragić’s clutch performances to Dončić’s game-winning shots, they have provided fans with plenty of highlights.

The Slovenian style of play, emphasizing creativity, teamwork, and fundamentals, has made a significant impact on how the game is played in the NBA.

4. GERMANY

Germany’s impact on the NBA is largely synonymous with one legendary name: Dirk Nowitzki. While Germany has produced other notable players, it’s Dirk who has truly put Germany on the NBA map.

Most impactful player:

• Dirk Nowitzki: Widely regarded as one of the greatest power forwards of all time, Nowitzki spent his entire 21-season NBA career with the Dallas Mavericks. He revolutionized the power forward position with his shooting ability, especially his trademark one-legged fadeaway jumper. Dirk was a 14-time All-Star, a league MVP (2007), and led the Mavericks to their first NBA championship in 2011, earning Finals MVP honors. His loyalty, skill, and sportsmanship have left an indelible mark on the league.
• Detlef Schrempf: We are not sure if can count him here. He is one of the first German players to make a significant impact in the NBA, but he was “raised” in US.
  Schrempf was a versatile forward known for his scoring, rebounding, and passing. He was a three-time All-Star and won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award twice.
• Dennis Schröder: A talented point guard known for his speed and playmaking abilities, Schröder has been a key player for several teams, including the Atlanta Hawks, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Los Angeles Lakers. He has also played significant roles in deep playoff runs.

But let’s be honest, Germany is here mostly because of Dirk Nowitzki. His impact on the game is profound and far-reaching. Dirk’s presence in the NBA has not only brought attention to German basketball but also inspired countless young players in Germany and beyond.

Dirk Nowitzki’s contributions go beyond just his playing career. He has been a mentor to younger players and an ambassador for the game worldwide. His work ethic, humility, and dedication are exemplary, setting a standard for future generations.

Germany’s involvement in the NBA also includes memorable moments, such as Dirk’s unforgettable 2011 championship run, which solidified his legacy as one of the all-time greats.

This is no brainer: Germany is part of TOP 5 European countries in the NBA selection. Could it be any higher?

3. SPAIN

Spain has been a powerhouse in the NBA, producing some of the most skilled and successful players in recent history. Spanish players are known for their versatility, teamwork, and high basketball IQ.

Same goes for Spain, jusr like Germany. Spain is on top of the game here. It is in TOP 5 European countries in the NBA selection placed at number 3. If yoz think this is too low… Well, you might be right. But just wait to see rest of TOP 5 European countries in the NBA selection.

Most impactful players:

• Pau Gasol: A six-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion, Gasol’s versatility, skill, and leadership have made him one of the most successful European players in NBA history. He was a key player for the Lakers during their championship runs in 2009 and 2010.
• Marc Gasol: Known for his defense, passing, and scoring, Marc won an NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019. His ability to play both ends of the floor made him one of the best centers of his generation.
• Ricky Rubio: Renowned for his playmaking and defensive skills, Rubio has been an influential guard in the NBA since his arrival. His flashy passes and solid defense have made him a fan favorite.

But it’s not just about these stars. Spain has had a consistent flow of talented players making their way to the NBA. Players like Serge Ibaka, who won a championship with the Raptors, and Juan Carlos Navarro, who had a brief but memorable stint, have also contributed significantly.

Spain’s influence extends beyond just players. Pau Gasol has taken on mentorship roles and has been an ambassador for the sport, promoting basketball globally.

Spanish players have also been involved in some iconic NBA moments. Who could forget Pau Gasol’s crucial role in the Lakers’ championships or Marc Gasol’s defensive prowess during the Raptors’ 2019 title run?

The Spanish style of play, emphasizing teamwork, passing, and fundamentals, has made a significant impact on how the game is played in the NBA.

So yes, Spain has done it all, from winning championships to producing some of the most skilled and intelligent players in the league.

2. FRANCE

France has made a huge impact on the NBA, bringing in a wave of talent and changing the game in many ways. From elite defenders to versatile scorers, French players have left their mark.

Most impactful players:

• Tony Parker: One of the most successful European players in NBA history, Parker was a key member of the San Antonio Spurs, winning four NBA championships and earning a Finals MVP award in 2007. His quickness, scoring ability, and leadership were pivotal to the Spurs’ success.
• Rudy Gobert: Known as one of the best defensive players in the league, Gobert has won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award multiple times. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and overall defensive presence have set a standard for modern centers.
• Boris Diaw: A versatile forward, Diaw was known for his basketball IQ, passing, and ability to play multiple positions. He was a crucial part of the Spurs’ 2014 championship team.

But it’s not just about the players. Tony Parker also went on to become a successful executive, owning ASVEL Basket, a top French team. And let’s not forget about French influence off the court: Joakim Noah, another great player, brought energy and passion, making him a beloved figure in the league.

France’s recent impact is also notable. With back-to-back first overall draft picks, including Victor Wembanyama, who is poised to take the league by storm, the future looks bright.

French players have also been involved in some memorable moments in NBA history. Remember the thrilling battles of the Spurs in the 2000s? Parker and Diaw were right at the heart of those.

Let’s say that France is on the path of becomeing the leading country in the TOP 5 European countries in the NBA list. But, for now…

And the final verdict goes…

1. SERBIA

Well, Serbia has done it all. Serbia has had players who changed the game, like Nikola Jokić. For a long time, it was the country with the most NBA players in the league. Serbia has checked all the boxes.

Most impactful players:

• Nikola Jokić: As a three-time MVP (2021, 2022, 2024) and an NBA champion (2023), Jokić has redefined the role of the center with his exceptional passing, shooting, and basketball IQ.
• Vlade Divac: One of the first European players to make a significant impact in the NBA, Divac was known for his passing and all-around play, helping pave the way for future European players.
• Peja Stojaković: A prolific scorer and three-point shooter, Stojaković was a key player for the Sacramento Kings in the early 2000s. Probably the best shooter of his generation.

But that’s just about players. Vlade Divac actually became one of the first foreigners to run a team as a GM, and that’s just a side fact. The first European (and international) NBA head coach came from Serbia. It was Igor Kokoskov, who was in charge of the Phoenix Suns. Now there is Darko Rajaković, head coach of the Toronto Raptors, with a few more impactful assistant coaches around the league.

Even Nikola Jokić would be enough to place this country at the top of the list, but let’s not forget more players.

Serbia was even involved in one of the most famous trades (Kobe Bryant – Vlade Divac) and one of the biggest draft busts in Darko Miličić, the 2nd pick in a year when there were LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony, to name just a few.

And last but not least, Serbia “gave” the NBA the great, smiley giant Boban Marjanović, who made a name for himself not just with his basketball game but with his personality as a beloved teammate, which led him to Hollywood. So yes, they have done it all.