International players make up a quarter of NBA on opening night
Mark D. Smith / USA TODAY Sports
NEW YORK - 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. Canada has 11 players on NBA rosters, the most of any country for the third straight year. France is next at 10, followed by Brazil at nine and Australia 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.