International players are slowly taking over the sport of basketball, as has been the case for the National Basketball Association. Players from all over the world are making the transition from playing internationally or developing overseas to the NBA. Two-time MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as well as MVP candidates like Victor Wembenyama, Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic. They already have the skills to compete at the highest level which is why they are able to adjust so quickly. 

This has been seen in the recent MVP awards as the last six winners have all been international players. The influx of international players helps to expand the game, growing it around the world as these players receive more recognition getting drafted to the NBA. They are also better developed as all around players who can score, pass and manage the game. 

NBA teams scout globally and search for new talent everywhere. It has helped discover superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo who wasn’t known before the draft but developed into one of the league’s best players. Other stars in the past like Dirk Nowitzki and Yao Ming have helped pave the way.

International players are rising because the game has expanded, training methods have changed and they are rewarded for the way that they play the game. It shows that players can come from anywhere. As well as the aesthetic benefits to the game, it also brings monetary benefits for the league from different countries as more jerseys are sold and viewership increases.

International players often play in professional leagues and at high levels at an early age making them ready for the speed of the NBA. They are prepared and wanting to show that they can compete.