LiAngelo Ball Signs With Charlotte Hornets; Here Are 20 Other NBA Free Agents Still Available

LiAngelo Ball Signs With Charlotte Hornets; Here Are 20 Other NBA Free Agents Still Available

On Monday, the Charlotte Hornets announced the signing of LiAngelo Ball, one of the many NBA free agents who were still available at the time. He now joins his brother – LaMelo Ball – for yet another stint on the team – he spent the past two Summer Leagues with Charlotte. 

The Hornets, who started training camp on September 27th, now have 20 players on their roster – the max allowed at the moment. That number will be cut to 15 by the start of the regular season, meaning LiAngelo Ball is fighting for a roster spot – is it possible he makes the team?

Ball has an uphill battle to climb if he wants a roster spot, but you never know in this league. If he gets an opportunity to play during the preseason – their first preseason game is on October 2nd – then he might turn some heads if he plays well. We’ll have to wait and see what happens.

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What NBA Free Agents Are Still Available?

LiAngelo Ball Signs With Charlotte Hornets; Here Are 20 Other NBA Free Agents Still Available
betto rodrigues / Shutterstock

The signing of LiAngelo Ball is a reminder on two fronts. First, it reminds us that there are still a lot of NBA free agents still available at the moment. Second, it reminds us that there are still teams out there willing to give those NBA free agents an opportunity to earn a roster spot. 

We saw it with the signings of Dennis Schroder by the Los Angeles Lakers, Andre Iguodala by the Golden State Warriors, Markieff Morris by the Brooklyn Nets, Montrezl Harrell by the Philadelphia 76ers, and Josh Jackson by the Toronto Raptors – all signed in September. 

With so much talent still available, teams can still round out their rosters and add those missing pieces that’ll help them en route to a title run. As we prepare for the start of the regular season, let’s highlight some of the NBA free agents that are still available, but likely won’t be soon. 

20. Tristan Thompson

2021-22 Team: Kings, Pacers, Bulls

2021-22 Stats: 15.7 minutes, 6.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.4 steals, 0.4 blocks

Tristan Thompson was the No. 4 overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2011. He spent nine seasons with the team before leaving for Boston in 2020, but only lasted one season with the team. Last year, he played 30 games with the Kings, 23 with the Bulls, and four with Indiana. 

He can still provide some valuable depth for a team looking for a big man – he rebounds on both ends of the floor and can provide consistent points, albeit in small amounts. He’s averaging 9.0 points, 8.4 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game in his 11-year career.

19. Ben McLemore

2021-22 Team: Portland Trail Blazers

2021-22 Stats: 20.1 minutes, 10.2 points, 1.6 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.2 blocks 

Ben McLemore was drafted by the Sacramento Kings with the No. 7 overall pick in 2013. He’s averaging 9.0 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game in 556 games played. He recorded a career-high 12.1 points per game in his second year in the NBA.

McLemore had one of the best seasons of his career last year and shot the ball effectively from long range, which increases his stock in today’s NBA. Putting up 10.2 points per game off the bench is something every team can use, so expect him to find a new home some point soon. 

18. D.J. Augustin

2021-22 Team: Rockets, Lakers

2021-22 Stats: 16.1 minutes, 5.3 points, 1.2 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.3 steals

D.J. Augustin was drafted by the Charlotte Bobcats with the No. 9 overall pick in 2008. He’s averaging 9.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 0.6 blocks per game in 976 games across his 14-year career. He scored a career-high 14.4 points per game in his third year in the NBA.

Augustin can still add a lot of value, both offensively and defensively. He shot 42% from long range in 55 games last year – with 1.2 three pointers made per game. He’s not a player you can expect a high volume out of, but if veteran leadership is needed off the bench, he’s available.

17. Rajon Rondo

2021-22 Team: Lakers, Cavaliers

2021-22 Stats: 17.9 minutes, 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.2 blocks

Rajon Rondo was drafted by the Phoenix Suns with the No. 21 overall pick in 2006, but was quickly traded to the Boston Celtics. He’s averaging 9.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, 7.9 assists, and 1.6 steals across his 16-year career – he led the league in assists three times and steals once.

Rondo is another player that any NBA team can use right now. With two championship rings on his hand, he brings valuable veteran experience that can help a young or up-and-coming franchise get over that hump. Of course, he could also be the missing piece for a title contender.

16. Avery Bradley

2021-22 Team: Los Angeles Lakers

2021-22 Stats: 22.7 minutes, 6.4 points, 2.2 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.1 blocks

Avery Bradley was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the No. 19 overall pick in 2010. He’s averaging 11.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game across his 12-year career. Between 2013 and 2018, he averaged at least 13.9 points per game each year. 

Bradley not only brings a veteran presence to any NBA team, but he brings the type of defense you can only get out of a few guards in the league. He’s a two-time All-Defensive player that shot 39% from long range last year – making 1.3 three pointers per game. Someone sign him!

15. Hassan Whiteside

2021-22 Team: Utah Jazz

2021-22 Stats: 17.9 minutes, 8.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, 0.4 assists, 0.3 steals, 1.6 blocks

Hassan Whiteside was drafted by the Sacramento Kings with the No. 33rd overall pick (second round) in 2010. He’s averaging 12.6 points, 10.8 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.5 steals, and 2.2 blocks per game over his 10-year career. He led the league in blocks twice and rebounds once.

For a team that needs steady rebounding and a big presence down low, Whiteside can certainly add some value – not the 32.6 minutes per game he averaged in 2016-17, but somewhere around 15-20 minutes per game. He can still rebound, he can still score, and he can still block. 

14. Greg Monroe

2021-22 Team: Timberwolves, Wizards, Bucks, Jazz

2021-22 Stats: 13.9 minutes, 5.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.7 blocks

Greg Monroe was drafted by the Detroit Pistons with the No. 7 overall pick in 2010. He’s averaging 13.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game across his 10-year career. He put up at least 15.2 points per game every year between 2011 and 2016. 

Monroe played with four teams last season, but still found a way to be productive with each team. After not playing in the NBA for two seasons, I’d say it was a successful year for Monroe, who proved he can still hang with the big boys. He won’t be your sixth man, but he’ll add depth. 

13. Paul Millsap

2021-22 Team: Nets, 76ers

2021-22 Stats: 11.4 minutes, 3.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.3 steals, 0.4 blocks

Paul Millsap was drafted by the Utah Jazz with the No. 47 overall pick (second round) in 2006. He’s averaging 13.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game over his 16-year career. He put up at least 11.6 points per game every year between 2008 and 2020.

Millsap started to see his production and minutes decline in 2020-21, hitting an all-time low last season with the Nets and 76ers – he only played in 33 games, averaging just 11.4 minutes in those games. He can still play 15+ minutes per game, someone just has to give him a chance.

12. Tomáš Satoranský

2021-22 Team: Pelicans, Spurs, Wizards

2021-22 Stats: 16.5 minutes, 3.6 points, 2.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.1 blocks

Tomáš Satoranský was drafted by the Washington Wizards with the No. 32 overall pick (second round) in 2012. He’s averaging 6.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game in his six-year career, though his numbers took a major decline last season. 

Satoranský averaged just 16.5 minutes per game last year – his lowest mark since his rookie year in 2016. Still, he found a way to stay productive in a limited role – shooting the ball well, passing the ball well, and rebounding well. He also had himself a fantastic FIBA EuroBasket. 

11. Lou Williams

2021-22 Team: Atlanta Hawks

2021-22 Stats: 14.3 minutes, 6.3 points, 1.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.1 blocks

Lou Williams was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the No. 45th overall pick (second round) in 2005. He’s averaging 13.9 points, 2.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game across his 17-year career. His numbers declined last year, but he can still contribute.

Williams was traded by the Clippers in 2020 and spent the rest of that season and all of last season with the team. He has yet to win a championship, so I would love to see a contender pick him up for some depth value. He’s a three-time Sixth Man of the Year, for crying out loud. 

10. Trevor Ariza

2021-22 Team: Los Angeles Lakers

2021-22 Stats: 19.3 minutes, 4.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 0.5 assists, 0.3 blocks

Trevor Ariza was drafted by the New York Knicks with the No. 43 overall pick (second round) in 2004. He’s averaging 10.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.3 blocks across his 18-year career. He won an NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2009.

Ariza can still be a solid role player for the right franchise. While he struggled from beyond the arc last year, he normally shoots the ball exceptionally well (35% throughout his career). He plays good defense and rebounds the ball well, which teams can always use down the stretch. 

9. Rodney Hood

2021-22 Team: Bucks, Clippers

2021-22 Stats: 13.6 minutes, 3.1 points, 1.5 rebounds, 0.7 assists, 0.3 steals, 0.1 blocks

Rodney Hood was drafted by the Utah Jazz with the No. 23 overall pick in 2014. He’s averaging 10.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game over his eight-year career. He averaged at least 11 points per game every season between 2015 and 2020. 

Hood saw his numbers decline during the 2020-21 season and continued to decline last year as his minutes dropped significantly – from 29.5 minutes per game in 2019-20 to 13.6 minutes per game in 2021-22. He can still be a productive player in the NBA, he just needs an opportunity.

8. Jeremy Lamb

2021-22 Team: Pacers, Kings

2021-22 Stats: 16.7 minutes, 7.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.4 blocks

Jeremy Lamb was drafted by the Houston Rockets with the No. 12 overall pick in 2012. He’s averaging 10.1 points, 3.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game over his 10-year career. He put up at least 10 points per game every year between 2017 and 2020. 

Lamb saw his minutes decline last season as he split time between the Pacers (39 games) and Kings (17 games). As a result, his numbers declined – but he was still productive when on the court. He’s effective from long range and can help space the floor out for teams that need it.

7. Eric Bledsoe

2021-22 Team: Los Angeles Clippers

2021-22 Stats: 25.2 minutes, 9.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.4 blocks

Eric Bledsoe was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the No. 18 overall pick in 2010. He’s averaging 13.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game over his 12-year career. It was just six seasons ago that he was putting up 21.1 points per game. 

Bledsoe averaged at least 12.2 points per game in every season between 2013 and 2020 – he almost did so last season, finishing the year at 9.9 points per game. He can be your team’s sixth man and is two-time All-Defensive player, so there’s value both offensively and defensively. 

6. Dwight Howard

2021-22 Team: Los Angeles Lakers

2021-22 Stats: 16.2 minutes, 6.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.6 blocks

Dwight Howard was drafted by the Orlando Magic with the No. 1 overall pick in 2004. He’s averaging 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game over his 18-year career. He’s an eight-time All-Star and three-time Defensive Player of the Year. 

Howard isn’t putting up 10+ points per game anymore and isn’t a double-double machine like he used to be, but that’s not what he’s expected to provide. He gives you valuable minutes off the bench and while he’s getting older, he still has that fire in him that can hype your team up. 

5. Elfrid Payton

2021-22 Team: Phoenix Suns

2021-22 Stats: 11.0 minutes, 3.0 points, 1.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.1 blocks

Elfrid Payton was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the No. 10 overall pick in 2014. He’s averaging 10.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, 5.7 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game over his career. Before last year, he put up at least 10.0 points per game in six straight seasons.

I believe Payton can still provide guard depth in the NBA. His minutes went down significantly last year – more than half – so ignore the 3.0 points per game in 2022. He’s not an effective three point shooter, but he can manage the offense and has no problem getting others involved.

4. LaMarcus Aldridge

2021-22 Team: Brooklyn Nets

2021-22 Stats: 22.3 minutes, 12.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.3 steals, 1.0 blocks

LaMarcus Aldridge was drafted by the Chicago Bulls with the No. 2 pick in 2006, but was quickly traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. He averages 19.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.7 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game across his 16-year career. He’s a seven-time All-Star.

Aldridge proved that he can still contribute consistently, putting up 12.9 points per game in 22.3 minutes per game with the Brooklyn Nets last year. His 5.5 rebounds and 1.0 block per game show that he can still give quality effort on both ends, which is good to see from a 37-year-old.

3. DeMarcus Cousins

2021-22 Team: Bucks, Nuggets

2021-22 Stats: 15.0 minutes, 9.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.4 blocks

DeMarcus Cousins was drafted by the Sacramento Kings with the No. 5 overall pick in 2010. He’s averaging 19.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game across his 11-year career in the NBA. He’s a four-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA player. 

Cousins split time between the Nuggets and Bucks last year, putting up 9.0 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. He can still provide valuable depth down low and is able to hit the long range ball from time to time. He’ll space the floor out and give his teammates open looks. 

2. Blake Griffin

2021-22 Team: Brooklyn Nets

2021-22 Stats: 17.1 minutes, 6.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.3 blocks

Blake Griffin was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers with the No. 1 overall pick in 2009. He’s averaging 19.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game over his 12-year career. He’s a six-time All-Star, five-time All-NBA, and former Rookie of the Year. 

Griffin’s playing time decreased dramatically last year, but he remained productive and proved he can hang with the best. He’s not as explosive as he once was and most of his huge dunks are behind him, but he’s a quality role player and a great personality to have in the locker room. 

1. Carmelo Anthony

2021-22 Team: Los Angeles Lakers

2021-22 Stats: 26.0 minutes, 13.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.8 blocks

Carmelo Anthony was drafted by the Denver Nuggets with the No. 3 overall pick in 2003. He’s averaging 22.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game over his 19-year career. He’s a 10-time All-Star, six-time All-NBA, and 2012-13 scoring champion. 

Anthony is still a lethal shooter who can provide much-needed points off the bench. He has averaged more than 13 points per game the past two seasons in that role and can do the same this season, if put in the right position. Please, someone get this man a championship ring!

Expect These NBA Free Agents to Find a Home Soon

LiAngelo Ball Signs With Charlotte Hornets; Here Are 20 Other NBA Free Agents Still Available
Andrew Makedonski / Shutterstock

The NBA free agents listed above are too talented not to find a home over the next few weeks, but you never know. Even if they don’t find a new team, they’ll likely be called upon later in the season when injuries happen or teams need a spark – it’s something we see every single year. 

With that said, basketball fans can rest easy knowing we’re just a few weeks away from the start of the 2022-23 NBA regular season. The first tip-off of the season is scheduled for Tuesday, October 18th, 2022 at 7:30PM ET – when the Boston Celtics host the Philadelphia 76ers. 

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If that’s not enough excitement for one night, then the Golden State Warriors host the Los Angeles Lakers right after and both games will be televised nationally on TNT. For now, let’s hope and pray we get through training camp without any injuries, drama, or other mishaps.

These 35 NBA Players Are Currently Playing in FIBA Eurobasket 2022

I don’t know about other ESPN+ users, but I’ve enjoyed getting to watch all the NBA players competing at FIBA Eurobasket 2022. The games started on September 1st, with the 24 countries placed into four groups of six teams – trying to earn a spot in the knockout stage.

The knockout stage began on September 10th and 11th, with eight teams advancing to the quarterfinals – Germany, Greece, Spain, Finland, Slovenia, Poland, France, and Italy. That list will be narrowed down to four teams on September 14th and two teams on September 16th. 

The Eurobasket 2022 Final – as well as the third place game – will take place on September 18th at Mercedes-Benz Arena in Berlin, Germany. A champion hasn’t been crowned since 2017, when Slovenia defeated Serbia 93-85 in the final. Spain won three of the previous four finals.

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Which NBA Players Are Playing in FIBA Eurobasket 2022?

These 35 NBA Players Are Currently Playing in FIBA Eurobasket 2022
sportoakimirka / Shutterstock

While there’s a wide range of talent at FIBA Eurobasket 2022, a majority of fans in the United States are going to be drawn to the 35 NBA players who are currently representing their countries. Of course, there are a number of other former NBA players to watch as well.

For example, Dzanan Musa, Jan Vesely, Lorenzo Brown, Guerschon Yabusele, Shane Larkin, Mario Hezonja, Rudy Fernandez, Georgios Papagiannis, and Nico Mannion – among several others – are former NBA players currently playing in FIBA Eurobasket 2022. 

Some of those names might not sound familiar to you, largely because they now play overseas. Don’t worry, we’re going to share with you the 35 active NBA players that you can watch at FIBA Eurobasket 2022 – if they haven’t been eliminated yet. There are still a lot of big names in play!

35. Svi Mykhailiuk

Country: Ukraine

NBA Team: Free Agent

Eurobasket 2022: 17.0 points in 29.2 minutes per game (six games)

Svi Mykhailiuk was drafted by the Lakers in the second round of the 2018 draft, but is currently a free agent. He has also played on the Pistons, Thunder, and most recently the Raptors. He’s one of Ukraine’s best players and isn’t shy to put up a three pointer if you give him space.

34. Alperen Şengün

Country: Turkey

NBA Team: Houston Rockets

Eurobasket 2022: 16.5 points in 29.1 minutes per game (six games)

Alperen Şengün was drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the 16th overall pick in 2021. He averaged 9.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game his rookie season and is expected to play an even bigger role for the Rockets this season. 

33. Alex Len

Country: Ukraine

NBA Team: Sacramento Kings

Eurobasket 2022: 8.0 points in 21.4 minutes per game (six games)

Alex Len was drafted by the Phoenix Suns with the fifth overall pick in 2013. He also played for the Hawks, Wizards, Raptors, and most recently the Kings – where he played 39 games last year. He brings a lot of NBA experience (nine years) to a Ukraine team that needs every bit of it. 

32. Furkan Korkmaz

Country: Turkey

NBA Team: Philadelphia 76ers

Eurobasket 2022: 12.6 points in 30.4 minutes per game (five games)

Furkan Korkmaz was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 26th overall pick in 2016. He has spent his entire five-year career with the team and is an integral part of their bench – seeing about 20 minutes per game. He averaged 7.6 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists last year. 

31. Cedi Osman

Country: Turkey

NBA Team: Cleveland Cavaliers

Eurobasket 2022: 15.3 points in 36.5 minutes per game (six games)

Cedi Osman was drafted by the Timberwolves with the 31st overall pick in 2015, but he was immediately traded to the Cavaliers – where he has spent the past five years. He’s a major role player off the bench, averaging around 10 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists per game.

30. Usman Garuba

Country: Spain

NBA Team: Houston Rockets

Eurobasket 2022: 4.8 points in 17.0 minutes per game (six games)

Usman Garuba was drafted by the Houston Rockets with the 23rd overall pick in 2021. He put up 2.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, 0.7 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.5 blocks in 10.0 minutes per game. He played just 24 games and received two starts, but is expected to have a larger role this year.

29. Juancho Hernangómez

Country: Spain

NBA Team: Toronto Raptors 

Eurobasket 2022: 10.0 points in 22.7 minutes per game (six games)

Juancho Hernangómez was drafted by the Denver Nuggets with the 15th overall pick in 2016. He has also played for the Timberwolves, Celtics, Jazz, and Spurs over his six-year career. He’s now entering his first season with the Raptors and will likely play a supportive role off the bench.

28. Willy Hernangómez 

Country: Spain

NBA Team: New Orleans Pelicans

Eurobasket 2022: 16.3 points in 21.0 minutes per game (six games)

Willy Hernangómez was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round of the 2015 draft – he is the younger brother Juancho. While he never played for the 76ers, he has played for the Knicks, Hornets, and the Pelicans – where he averaged 9.1 points per game in 2021.

27. Vlatko Čančar 

Country: Slovenia

NBA Team: Denver Nuggets

Eurobasket 2022: 10.0 points in 28.5 minutes per game (six games)

Vlatko Čančar was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the 2017 draft. His role has increased every year since, playing 3.2 minutes per game in 2019 and 11.7 minutes per game in 2021. I wouldn’t be surprised if he sees similar – if not better – minutes this season. 

26. Marko Simonović 

Country: Montenegro

NBA Team: Chicago Bulls

Eurobasket 2022: 8.7 points in 19.7 minutes per game (six games)

Marko Simonović was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the second round of the 2020 draft. He made his debut last season, playing in nine games, but is expected to have a bigger role in 2022 after a strong Summer League. He’s the only player on this list representing Montenegro.

25. Simone Fontecchio

Country: Italy

NBA Team: Utah Jazz

Eurobasket 2022: 19.2 points in 26.9 minutes per game (six games)

Simone Fontecchio went undrafted in 2017, but is a one-time Italian Cup winner, three-time Italian Super Cup Winner, one-time LBA All-Star, and was named LBA Best Player Under 22 in 2015. The Utah Jazz recently signed him to a contract, finally welcoming him into the NBA. 

24. Thanasis Antetokounmpo

Country: Greece

NBA Team: Milwaukee Bucks

Eurobasket 2022: 2.8 points in 11.3 minutes per game (six games)

Thanasis Antetokounmpo was drafted by the New York Knicks in the second round in 2014, but only played in two games over the next six seasons. He signed with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2019 and has played 9.2 minutes per game in 125 games since – alongside his older brother.

23. Tyler Dorsey

Country: Greece

NBA Team: Dallas Mavericks

Eurobasket 2022: 13.7 points in 22.4 minutes per game (six games)

Tyler Dorsey was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the second round in 2017, but struggled to earn a long-term role with the team. He was later traded to the Grizzlies in 2019 and spent time overseas between 2019 and 2022. He recently signed a two-way contract with the Mavericks. 

22. Franz Wagner

Country: Germany

NBA Team: Orlando Magic

Eurobasket 2022: 15.8 points in 25.3 minutes per game (six games)

Franz Wagner was drafted by the Orlando Magic with the eighth overall pick in 2021. He put up 15.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game in 2021 – starting 79 games in the process. He’s having a strong Eurobasket, which is a good sign of what’s to come.

21. Sandro Mamukelashvili

Country: Georgia

NBA Team: Milwaukee Bucks

Eurobasket 2022: 15.2 points in 35.0 minutes per game (five games)

Sandro Mamukelashvili was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the 2021 draft. He averaged 3.8 points, 2.0 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 0.2 steals, and 0.2 blocks in 41 games as a rookie last year, but was putting on an absolute show with Georgia at Eurobasket 2022.

20. Goga Bitadze

Country: Georgia

NBA Team: Indiana Pacers

Eurobasket 2022: 10.0 points in 23.3 minutes per game (five games)

Goga Bitadze was drafted by the Indiana Pacers with the 18th overall pick in 2019 – him and Mamukelashvili are teammates in the NBA and Eurobasket. Bitadze had the best year of his career in 2021, putting up 7.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 50 games (16 starts).

19. Théo Maledon

Country: France

NBA Team: Oklahoma City Thunder

Eurobasket 2022: n/a

Théo Maledon was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round of the 2020 draft, but he was immediately traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder – where he has spent the past two seasons. While his role was reduced last year as the team rebuilds, he’s still vital to their plan.

18. Frank Ntilikina

Country: France

NBA Team: Dallas Mavericks

Eurobasket 2022: n/a

Frank Ntilikina was drafted by the New York Knicks with the eighth overall pick in 2017. He spent four years with the team before taking his talents to the Dallas Mavericks, where he played 58 games last year. He unfortunately was unable to suit up for FIBA Eurobasket 2022. 

17. Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot

Country: France

NBA Team: Free Agent

Eurobasket 2022: 4.5 points in 19.1 minutes per game (six games)

Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 24th overall pick in 2016. He has played for five teams during his six-year career, serving a limited role everywhere he has gone. He last played for the Atlanta Hawks last season, but is currently a free agent. 

16. Dario Šarić

Country: Croatia

NBA Team: Phoenix Suns

Eurobasket 2022: 9.2 points in 27.1 minutes per game (six games)

Dario Šarić was drafted by the Magic with the 12th overall pick in 2014, but was immediately traded to the 76ers and didn’t join the NBA until 2016. He’s a dominant player down low when healthy, but has struggled with injuries throughout his career – missing 2021 with a torn ACL. 

15. Ivica Zubac

Country: Croatia

NBA Team: Los Angeles Clippers

Eurobasket 2022: 9.5 points in 19.2 minutes per game (six games)

Ivica Zubac was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round of the 2016 draft, but has since moved on to the Los Angeles Clippers. He started in 76 games last year, averaging 10 points per game for the first time in his career. He also had a career-high 8.5 rebounds.  

14. Bojan Bogdanovic

Country: Croatia

NBA Team: Utah Jazz

Eurobasket 2022: 19.2 points in 32.1 minutes per game (six games)

Bojan Bogdanovic was drafted by the Miami Heat with the 31st overall pick in the 2011 draft, but never played for the team and didn’t make his NBA debut until 2014 – with the Brooklyn Nets. He has spent the past three years with the Utah Jazz and is a regular starter in the NBA. 

13. Evan Fournier

Country: France

NBA Team: New York Knicks

Eurobasket 2022: 14.7 points in 30.0 minutes per game (six games)

Evan Fournier was drafted by the Denver Nuggets with the 20th overall pick in 2012. He has also played for the Magic, Celtics, and most recently the Knicks – where he started 80 games last season and averaged 14.1 points per game. He will play a similar role in New York in 2022.

12. Lauri Markkanen

Country: Finland

NBA Team: Utah Jazz

Eurobasket 2022: 27.8 points in 27.4 minutes per game (six games)

Lauri Markkanen was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves with the seventh overall pick in 2017, but was immediately traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he spent the first four years of his career. He started 61 games for the Cavaliers last season, averaging 14.8 points per game.

11. Daniel Theis

https://twitter.com/4StateNews/status/1568674313666174976

Country: Germany

NBA Team: Indiana Pacers

Eurobasket 2022: 7.6 points in 21.2 minutes per game (five games)

Daniel Theis made his NBA debut in 2017 with the Boston Celtics and played at least 63 games for the team over his first three seasons. He was traded mid-season in 2020 and traded again last year, but returned to Boston by year’s end. He’s now with another new team in 2022.

10. Deni Avdija

Country: Israel

NBA Team: Washington Wizards

Eurobasket 2022: 14.6 points in 32.8 minutes per game (five games)

Deni Avdija was drafted by the Washington Wizards with the ninth overall draft pick in 2020. He averaged 8.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 82 games last year, all of which career highs – despite playing off the bench all but eight games. Expect more improvements in 2022.

9. Dennis Schröder

Country: Germany

NBA Team: Free Agent

Eurobasket 2022: 19.0 points in 33.1 minutes per game (five games)

Dennis Schröder was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks with the 17th overall draft pick in 2013. He has played for the Hawks, Thunder, Lakers, Celtics, and Rockets over his nine-year career and while he’s currently a free agent, don’t expect it to stay that way for long. He’ll find a team soon.

8. Goran Dragić 

Country: Slovenia

NBA Team: Chicago Bulls

Eurobasket 2022: 14.5 points in 26.4 minutes per game (six games)

Goran Dragić was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in the second round of the 2008 draft, but was immediately traded to the Phoenix Suns. He has played for five teams over the past 14 years and will be playing with his sixth team in 2022 – his first season with the Chicago Bulls. 

7. Jusuf Nurkić

Country: Bosnia and Herzegovina

NBA Team: Portland Trail Blazers

Eurobasket 2022: 16.2 points in 29.9 minutes per game (five games)

Jusuf Nurkić was drafted by the Denver Nuggets with the 16th overall pick in 2014, but has spent the past six seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers. He’s a dominant player down low when healthy, but has been riddled by injuries over his career – he seems to be healthy now.

6. Jonas Valančiūnas

Country: Lithuania

NBA Team: New Orleans Pelicans

Eurobasket 2022: 16.2 points in 28.3 minutes per game (six games)

Jonas Valančiūnas was drafted by the Toronto Raptors with the fifth overall pick in 2011. He had stints with the Raptors and Grizzlies before making his debut with the New Orleans Pelicans last season – averaging 17.8 points (career-high) and 11.4 rebounds per game. 

5. Domantas Sabonis

Country: Lithuania

NBA Team: Sacramento Kings

Eurobasket 2022: 12.5 points in 29.0 minutes per game (six games)

Domantas Sabonis was drafted by the Orlando Magic with the 11th overall pick in 2016, but was immediately traded to the Thunder. He then spent the next four and a half seasons with the Pacers before being traded to the Kings last season – where he played 15 games late in 2022.

4. Rudy Gobert

Country: France

NBA Team: Minnesota Timberwolves

Eurobasket 2022: 14.0 points in 27.2 minutes per game (six games)

Rudy Gobert was drafted by the Nuggets with the 27th overall pick in 2013, but was traded to the Utah Jazz – where he spent the first nine seasons of his career. He was the subject of a blockbuster trade this offseason that will see him play for the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2022.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo

Country: Greece

NBA Team: Milwaukee Bucks

Eurobasket 2022: 29.0 points in 27.9 minutes per game (five games)

Giannis Antetokounmpo was drafted by the Bucks with the 15th overall pick in 2013. He’s not only one of the best players in the NBA, but he’s the current scoring leader at Eurobasket 2022. Of course, this is coming off a season where he put up a career-high 29.9 points per game.  

2. Nikola Jokić

Country: Serbia

NBA Team: Denver Nuggets

Eurobasket 2022: 21.7 points in 25.0 minutes per game (six games)

Nikola Jokic was drafted by the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the 2014 draft. He has spent his entire seven-year career with them and is the current two-time reigning MVP. He averaged a career-high 27.1 points, 13.8 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game last season.

1. Luka Dončić

Country: Slovenia

NBA Team: Dallas Mavericks

Eurobasket 2022: 28.0 points in 32.9 minutes per game (six games)

Luka Dončić was drafted by the Hawks with the third overall pick in 2018, but was immediately traded to the Dallas Mavericks – where he has spent the past four seasons. He has put up at least 27.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game in each of the past three seasons.

NBA Players Are Gearing Up for the Upcoming Season

These 35 NBA Players Are Currently Playing in FIBA Eurobasket 2022
Rokas Tenys / Shutterstock

Whether they’re playing at FIBA Eurobasket 2022, local camps or tournaments, or at their own personal court, NBA players are currently preparing for the long and tumultuous 2022-23 regular season about to unfold on October 18th. It’s bound to be a season packed full of excitement. 

Not only are there a number of big-time NBA players making debuts with their new team – whether it be a free agent signing or a player from a trade – but there are a number of rookie NBA players ready to prove their worth in this league. Who do you think will shine this season?

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Better yet, which team do you think is going to be crowned champion at season’s end? Will the Golden State Warriors repeat (yet again) or will someone spoil their comeback party – say the Grizzlies, 76ers, Bucks, Heat, Nets, Celtics, Clippers, Suns, Nuggets, it could be anybody!

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