Since the early days of Hank Biasatti’s entry into the NBA in 1946, the league has steadily opened its doors to players from around the globe. What started as a rare occurrence in NBA players has now evolved into a defining feature of the modern NBA. Over the decades, international talent has not only made its presence felt on the court but has also transformed the NBA into a worldwide spectacle.
International players are no longer just participants; they are now among the biggest draws for global audiences. The most-viewed NBA players list is clear proof of their rising popularity.
While LeBron James and Stephen Curry maintain their stronghold at the top with billions of views, the names that follow tell a broader story. Luka Doncic, representing Slovenia, stands at third with 1.82 billion views. Victor Wembanyama from France and Nikola Jokic from Serbia follow closely behind.
The most-viewed players in the NBA this season pic.twitter.com/iPMfJZI1oK
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 14, 2025
The list continues with Canadian sensation Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Greek star Giannis Antetokounmpo. Even as American players like Ja Morant, Anthony Edwards, and Jayson Tatum remain fan favorites, the balance between local and international stardom is more equal than ever.
Fans React As NBA Players From Overseas Rise In Popularity
Fans have been vocal in recognizing this international surge. Many were quick to notice the composition of the most-viewed players list. One fan pointed out the shift by saying that only four of the top ten are American, calling it proof that the NBA is “officially a global league.”
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“Only 4/10 are American, it’s officially a global league,” the fan wrote.
Only 4/10 are American, it’s officially a global league
— HNH (@hoopsnhighlites) April 14, 2025
“Wow. Jokic being on the Nuggets in insane. I’m told he can’t be the face of the NBA as the clearly best player as well. Lmao,” another fan commented.
Wow. Jokic being on the Nuggets in insane. I'm told he can't be the face of the NBA as the clearly best player as well. Lmao
— FatBoyHoops (@JokStan1) April 14, 2025
“I’d love to see this list from views only from the us. Wemby and jokic got entire countries watching them ofc it’s always going to be Hugh same thing for embiid when he comes back,” one comment read.
I’d love to see this list from views only from the us. Wemby and jokic got entire countries watching them ofc it’s always going to be Hugh same thing for embiid when he comes back
— Tatumsupremacy (@Tatumburneracct) April 14, 2025
Despite this international momentum, many fans still stand by American icons. One user simply wrote, “Americans still on top.”
Americans still on top
— Nate King 🇺🇸 (@nateonthebeat) April 15, 2025
Another fan added, “Bron and Curry still own this league.”
Bron and Curry still own this league
— Warriors Comeback Season (@BiasedSC30fan) April 14, 2025
The global shift among the NBA players has been most evident in recent seasons. The 2024 NBA Draft saw both of the top two picks come from outside the United States. On the opening night of the 2024-25 season, a record-tying 125 international players from 43 countries across six continents were listed on team rosters.
Also Read: How International Players Are Changing The NBA Landscape?
