Many former NBA players have chosen for a stable role in Europe over a very limited one in the NBA during the 2023–24 EuroLeague season.
Everything began on July 12th when Willy Hernangomez signed a contract with FC Barcelona. However, not many supporters were thrilled about it because the return of the Spanish center had been hotly debated earlier. Furthermore, it’s not uncommon to see Europeans come back to the United States after a few years.
However, the Old Continent was in a frenzy when former NBA All-Star guard Kemba Walker joined with AS Monaco on July 21st. Everyone was abuzz because a big star in the NBA declined all offers to play a meaningful role on the team and rather chose to play in Europe.
So far, major companies have avoided such moves. But Kemba seems to have moved the needle in the right direction. Jabari Parker, who averaged 20 points per game with the Milwaukee Bucks six years ago, signed with Barça on August 6th.
And a week later, Partizan Mozart Beograde signed PJ Dozier and eight-year NBA veteran Frank Kaminski. And last but not least, 2019 NBA Champion Serge Ibaka was the final addition to FC Bayern Munich’s roster on September 16th.
The NBA’s European direction was also not complete at the beginning of the season. Kendrick Nunn signed with Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens, Edmund Sumner chose Zalgiris Kaunas and Rodney McGruder is currently in Milan.
Which five players adapted to their new duties the best and performed the best?
This ranking is determined by a number of factors, including per-game averages, the impact on the team’s offensive and defensive ratings, the player’s position on the team, the defensive eye test, and the team’s current standings.
5. Willy Hernangomez | Barcelona | Center
17 MIN | 11.6 PTS | 4.9 REB | 56% FG
NET -9.7 | ON-OFF -26.8
Willy Hernangomez, the 2022 EuroBasket champion, is first on this list. Despite the fact that among former NBA players that joined the EuroLeague this season, Barca’s center is third in terms of points per game.