Global game: One-fourth of NBA rosters is international

Posted October 25, 2016 7:00 am

The Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) - The NBA begins its season Tuesday night with international players making up one-quarter of the league.

The 113 international players come from 41 countries and territories. A maximum of 15 players are allowed on the 30 NBA teams.

The NBA said Tuesday that the Utah Jazz lead the way with seven international players. Every team has at least one such player. Canadians are most represented for the third straight year. Eleven players from Canada are on NBA rosters, followed by France at 10, Brazil at nine, and Australia and Spain at eight.

International newcomers making debuts Wednesday night include Dragan Bender of Croatia, the No. 4 overall draft pick by Phoenix, and Buddy Hield of the Bahamas, the No. 6 selection by New Orleans.

FILE - In this Sept. 23, 2016, file photo, New Orleans Pelicans guard Buddy Hield (24), of the Bahamas, poses for photos during their NBA basketball media day in New Orleans. The NBA begins its season Tuesday night, Oct. 25, 2016, with international players making up one-quarter of the league. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert, File) The Associated Press

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