Dissecting a top 100 list of NBA players

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, November 1, 2026

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was ranked the top contemporary NBA player in a list dominated by international stars, with the entire top five being born outside the United States. This ranking highlights the increasing global influence on the NBA, showcasing a blend of seasoned veterans and rising talent from 12 different countries.

A recent ranking featuring the top 100 contemporary NBA players highlights a significant presence of international talent among the league’s elite. The list, released by a prominent sports media outlet, places Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder at the top spot, followed by Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets, Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs, Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers, and Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Miami Heat rounding out the top five.

Notably, none of the top five players were born in the United States, with only Gilgeous-Alexander having played college basketball in the U.S. The others—Antetokounmpo (Greece), Doncic (Slovenia), Wembanyama (France), and Jokic (Serbia)—developed their skills entirely in their home countries. Collectively, these players have secured multiple accolades, including two NBA championships, 24 first-team All-NBA selections, 30 All-Star appearances, three scoring titles, and two Defensive Player of the Year awards.

LeBron James, currently with the Philadelphia 76ers, appears at No. 19, a ranking reflecting his advancing age as he approaches 42 years old later this month. Despite this, James remains a valuable contributor, particularly as he integrates with a younger, talented 76ers roster alongside teammates such as Jaylen Brown (No. 15) and Tyrese Maxey (No. 14).

Among American-born players, Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks stands out at No. 6. Once considered an auxiliary player in Dallas, Brunson has demonstrated significant skill and leadership in New York, impressing with his versatility, footwork, and clutch performances. His rise has been a notable aspect of the list.

The ranking features 17 international players hailing from 12 different countries, representing a broad geographic spread that includes Europe and Africa but excludes South America and Australia. Other notable Canadians on the list include Jamal Murray (No. 21) and Andrew Nembhard (No. 83).

Team representation in the top 100 varies, with the Boston Celtics featuring four players—Jayson Tatum (No. 9), Derrick White (No. 46), Payton Pritchard (No. 63), and Paul George (No. 81). Their rivals also have multiple players ranked: the Knicks include Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns (No. 16), OG Anunoby (No. 27), Mikal Bridges (No. 58), and Josh Hart (No. 74); the 76ers have Maxey, Brown, James, Joel Embiid (No. 41), and VJ Edgecombe (No. 79). The Lakers list includes Doncic, Austin Reaves (No. 32), and Walker Kessler (No. 76).

The Golden State Warriors’ contingent consists of Stephen Curry (No. 11) alongside veteran teammates Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, who are in their late 30s. The list reflects the team’s reliance on seasoned players approaching the end of their careers.

While there is some debate over specific rankings—such as Cade Cunningham (No. 8) placed ahead of Jayson Tatum—overall, the list has been regarded as a fair and thoughtful assessment of the current NBA talent landscape. Young players like Cooper Flagg, ranked No. 31 with potential for rapid improvement, also receive recognition.

This ranking underscores the evolving international influence within the NBA and highlights the mix of veteran experience and emerging talent shaping the league today.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.