While many former NBA players fade into obscurity after their careers end, others have found success and stardom in different popular leagues around the world.
These athletes, who once graced the NBA courts, have transitioned their talents to new arenas, continuing to make an impact on and off the field.
From the EuroLeague to professional basketball leagues in China, Japan, and beyond, these players have not only maintained their competitive edge but also become stars in their own right.
Their journeys showcase resilience, adaptability, and a passion for the game that transcends borders, proving that success doesn’t always have to come from the spotlight of the NBA.
NBA Stars Who Joined Other Leagues
5. Bob McAdoo
McAdoo made an immediate impact in the NBA when selected second overall by the Buffalo Braves in the 1972 draft. In his second season, he became the scoring champion, averaging 30.6 points per game. McAdoo continued to improve, earning a second consecutive scoring title in his third season with 34.5 points and 14.1 rebounds.
After a successful NBA career, which included an MVP award and two championships, he moved to Europe. Over seven years, McAdoo played for three Italian teams, winning one Italian Cup and two Italian league championships. He also claimed two EuroLeague titles and a EuroLeague Finals MVP award.
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4. Stephon Marbury
Marbury, a two-time NBA All-Star, never fully met the expectations placed on him in the NBA. However, since joining the Chinese Basketball Association in 2010, he has become a major figure, especially with the Beijing Ducks.
Marbury led the Ducks to three CBA championships in four seasons and was named Finals MVP after averaging 29.7 points, 5.7 assists, 4.8 rebounds, and 2 steals per game in the championship series.
Now 38, he has become an icon in China, with a statue in his honor at the Beijing Ducks’ arena. His remarkable journey has even inspired a musical. After retiring, Marbury plans to stay in China and hopes to coach the national team.
3. Luis Scola
Scola began his basketball career in Europe, playing in Spain from 1999 to 2007. Though selected by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2005 NBA draft, he was traded in 2007 after buyout terms couldn’t be agreed upon. Scola played ten NBA seasons before retiring at 36.
He spent two years in China before returning to Europe, playing for Olympia Milano in 2019-20 and Varese in 2020-21.
Despite an option for an extension with Varese, Scola has ended his playing career. He has since rejoined the team as its CEO.
2. Tracy McGrady
McGrady played his final season in the CBA with the Qingdao Eagles before briefly returning to the NBA with the San Antonio Spurs. The two-time NBA scoring champion averaged 25 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.1 assists on 49.6 percent shooting with the Eagles.
Despite his individual success, the team finished last in their division during his only season there. McGrady retired from basketball in 2013 and later attempted a brief career as a pitcher with the Sugar Land Skeeters in the Atlantic League, striking out one batter before retiring from baseball as well.
1. Dominique Wilkins
Wilkins had a successful 17-year basketball career, making nine All-Star appearances and winning the 1986 scoring title. Though he never won an NBA championship, he excelled in dunking and showcased his skills in Europe.
In Greece, he played for Panathinaikos, leading them to the Greek Cup in 1996 and earning Finals MVP. Wilkins later joined the San Antonio Spurs bench before moving to Italy to play for Fortitudo Bologna, where he helped them win the Italian Cup.
He returned to the NBA with the Orlando Magic and retired after the 1998-99 season. Wilkins was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
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