DALLAS, TX — Jason Kidd, the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks, recently shared his insights on the growing influence of international players in the NBA.
In a league historically dominated by American talent, Kidd predicted that 50 percent of the NBA will be international players by 2030. The prediction sheds light on the evolving landscape of professional basketball.
The Dallas Mavericks have a storied history of embracing international players, with none more iconic than Dirk Nowitzki. Nowitzki’s legendary career with the Mavericks solidified his status as an NBA great and paved the way for other international talents to thrive in the league. Players like Luka Dončić and Kristaps Porziņģis have since carried the torch for the Mavericks, further exemplifying the team’s commitment to international talent.
“I think Dallas has always been a franchise that’s pushed the envelope for international players. Look at Dirk, but there’s a roster on that floor, a lot of foreigners on that floor. And so it’s just the nature of what the scouts, you know, have done here. And they’ve had some success, some very famous international players here. But I think also the game, I think you’re by 2030 I think you’re gonna have half the league will be international,” said Kidd after a preseason Mavericks’ practice.
The Mavericks currently have seven players of international descent, including Kyrie Irving, who was born in Australia.
“Then, if that’s the truth, then US players got to start doing something and getting better at playing the game because that half the league will be international here shortly,” Kidd contained. “And that gives a lot of credit to the international players but also to the coaches and to the coaches who took the game abroad early on to teach the game. So, it’s kind of cool.”
Percent Of International Players In NBA Since 2010
Kidd, who helped USA Basketball win a pair of Olympic gold medals in the 2000s, acknowledges the influence of scouts and the success of famous international players who have graced the league. As the game continues to globalize, more teams are scouring the world for hidden gems, making international prospects an integral part of the league’s future.
The NBA has seen its share of international players grow, peaking around 25% in 2017 (via Statista).
Jason Kidd’s Comments Reflect Broader NBA Landscape Shift
Kidd’s prediction that half the league will be comprised of international players by 2030 is a significant development. This projection underscores the exceptional growth and development of basketball talent outside the United States. Countries across Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America have produced top-tier players who are making their mark in the NBA.
As international players continue to rise in prominence, Kidd’s comments also serve as a call to action for American players. The competition for spots on NBA rosters will intensify as international players make their mark. This trend urges American prospects to hone their skills, adapt to the evolving game, and maintain their competitive edge.
Kidd also credits coaches for taking the game abroad and teaching basketball to international talents. Coaches who have embraced the challenge of nurturing talent on a global scale have played a pivotal role in shaping the league’s future. Their dedication to spreading the love of the game has been instrumental in nurturing the skills of international prospects.
Jason Kidd’s insight paints a promising picture of the NBA’s future. The league’s increasing international flavor not only diversifies the talent pool but also enriches the overall basketball experience for fans around the world. As the game continues to evolve and globalize, the NBA promises to remain a dynamic and captivating spectacle for years to come.
Jason Kidd’s prediction of half the NBA being composed of international players by 2030 highlights the transformative power of the global basketball community. The NBA’s commitment to embracing international talent, coupled with the dedication of coaches and scouts, has ushered in an era of unprecedented growth. The evolving landscape of the NBA is an exciting testament to the universal appeal of the sport and the remarkable talents it continues to unearth. As fans, players, and coaches look to the future, they can anticipate a league that is richer, more diverse, and more competitive than ever before.
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