10 Best Former NBA Players Currently Playing Overseas

DeMarcus Cousins, after a notable NBA career, has continued to make his mark in international basketball. In April 2023, Cousins signed with the Guaynabo Mets in Puerto Rico's Baloncesto Superior Nacional league after departing from the Denver Nuggets. His impact was immediate, leading the team to the playoffs and semi-finals. Despite his efforts, the Mets were eliminated by the Gigantes de Carolina in a hard-fought seven-game series, with Cousins suffering an injury in Game 6 that sidelined him for a week.

In December 2023, Cousins transitioned to the Taiwan Beer Leopards in Taiwan's T1 League, but his journey didn’t stop there. By June 2024, he had joined the Taiwan Mustangs of The Asian Tournament (TAT), continuing to bring his veteran presence and skills to the international stage. Cousins’ move to the Mustangs underscores his adaptability and desire to play competitive basketball, even outside the NBA following concerns about his ability to stay focused and not have a difficult character in locker rooms.

2. Dwight Howard (Taiwan Mustangs)

Dwight Howard, a future Hall of Famer in the NBA, has found a new chapter in his career overseas. On November 7, 2022, Howard signed with the Taoyuan Leopards of Taiwan’s T1 League, where an exception was made to the salary cap to allow him to receive over $1 million, recognizing his potential to elevate the league's profile.

Howard’s presence in Taiwan brought significant attention to the league, and after the season, he explored opportunities in the Australian National Basketball League and played for the Philippine-based Strong Group in the Dubai International Basketball Championship, where he helped secure a silver medal.

In 2024, Howard continued his international career by signing with the Taiwan Mustangs of The Asian Tournament (TAT) on May 30, 2024. Despite previous talks of joining the Mets de Guaynabo in Puerto Rico’s Baloncesto Superior Nacional, Howard committed to the Mustangs, bringing his extensive experience and still-imposing physical presence to the team. His ability to adapt to different leagues means he has become a major marketing figure across the world.

3. Serge Ibaka ( Bayern Munich)

Serge Ibaka, once known for his defensive prowess and shot-blocking ability in the NBA, has successfully transitioned to European basketball. In 2022, after being traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, Ibaka re-signed with the team for one year. However, by early 2023, he found himself traded again, this time to the Indiana Pacers, who waived him shortly thereafter. Ibaka’s journey took a significant turn when he signed with Bayern Munich of the German Basketball Bundesliga (BBL) and the EuroLeague on September 16, 2023.

During his time with Bayern Munich, Ibaka brought his defensive skills and veteran leadership to the team, contributing significantly to their performances in both domestic and European competitions. Although he parted ways with the club in July 2024, Ibaka's stint in Germany demonstrated his ability to adapt and thrive in different basketball environments.

4. Patrick Beverley (Hapoel Tel Aviv BC)

Patrick Beverley, known for his tenacious defense and fiery competitive nature in the NBA, has embarked on a new adventure with Hapoel Tel Aviv BC in Israel. After a turbulent stint with the Milwaukee Bucks, which included a notable incident involving fans and a subsequent four-game suspension, Beverley sought to continue his career in a different setting.

On July 16, 2024, he signed a historic $2 million deal with Hapoel Tel Aviv, marking a significant move for both Beverley and the Israeli league. Beverley's decision to join Hapoel Tel Aviv highlights his desire to continue playing at a high level and contribute to the growth of basketball internationally. Beverley also has a chance to develop his brand outside the NBA because he has a very interesting podcast called “The Pat Bev Podcast with Rone”.

5. Jabari Parker ( FC Barcelona)

Jabari Parker, once a highly-touted prospect in the NBA, has found a new home with FC Barcelona in the EuroLeague. After a brief stint with the Boston Celtics in 2021, where he had moments of brilliance, Parker faced challenges in securing a stable role in the NBA. However, his talent was recognized by FC Barcelona, one of Europe's premier basketball clubs, leading to his signing on August 7, 2023.

Parker made an immediate impact, scoring a team-high 12 points in his debut against Girona on September 24, 2023. Parker’s move to FC Barcelona has rejuvenated his career, allowing him to showcase his skill. on a prominent international stage. His performances have been instrumental in Barcelona's campaigns in both the EuroLeague and Liga ACB.

6. Willy Hernangomez (FC Barcelona)

Willy Hernangomez has become a key player for FC Barcelona after leaving the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA. On July 12, 2023, Hernangomez signed a lucrative three-year deal with the Spanish powerhouse, FC Barcelona, after Real Madrid, his former club, chose not to match the offer. Hernangomez's transition back to Europe has allowed him to become a central figure in one of the continent's top teams, showcasing his skills and experience gained in the NBA.

With FC Barcelona, Hernangomez has been a dominant presence in the paint, utilizing his size and skill to great effect in both the EuroLeague and Liga ACB. His performances have been crucial in helping Barcelona maintain its status as one of the top teams in Europe.

7. Juancho Hernangomez (Panathinaikos)

Juancho Hernangomez has continued his professional basketball career with Panathinaikos B.C., one of Europe’s most storied clubs. After signing a one-year contract with the Toronto Raptors in July 2022 and subsequently being waived in February 2023, Hernangomez returned to European basketball. On July 27, 2023, he signed a two-year, €4.5 million deal with Panathinaikos, marking his return to European competition after seven years.

Since joining Panathinaikos, Hernangomez has been a vital addition to the team, bringing his NBA experience and versatile skill set to the EuroLeague. Hernangomez's return to Europe has allowed him to continue playing at a high level, demonstrating his adaptability and talent in one of the continent's most competitive leagues.

8. Marco Belinelli (Virtus Bologna)

Marco Belinelli, an experienced sharpshooter, has been a pivotal player for Virtus Bologna since leaving the NBA. After returning to Italy in 2020 and signing a three-year deal with Virtus Bologna, Belinelli quickly became a cornerstone of the team. His leadership and scoring ability helped Virtus secure their first national title in twenty years by defeating Olimpia Milano in the 2021 finals.

Belinelli’s impact was further highlighted by winning multiple Supercups and a EuroCup, solidifying his status as a key player in Italian basketball. In July 2023, Belinelli renewed his contract with Virtus Bologna through 2025, continuing to play a crucial role for the team. Belinelli's journey with Virtus Bologna underscores his continued relevance in professional basketball, proving that his shooting prowess and veteran leadership remain invaluable assets.

9. Raul Neto (Fenerbahçe)

Raul Neto has brought his steady playmaking and defensive skills to Fenerbahçe Beko in Turkey. After a season with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2022-2023, Neto signed a one-year deal with Fenerbahçe on August 5, 2023.

His move to one of Turkey’s premier basketball clubs has allowed Neto to continue his career at a high level, contributing his experience and skills to the EuroLeague and Turkish Super League. With Fenerbahçe, Neto has been a reliable floor general, providing stability and leadership on the court.

10. Mike Scott (LDLC ASVEL)

Mike Scott, known for his versatility and shooting in the NBA, has made a significant impact with LDLC ASVEL in France. After a successful stint with SLUC Nancy Basket in 2022-2023, where he demonstrated his scoring and leadership abilities, Scott joined the Gigantes de Carolina in Puerto Rico, leading them to a championship and earning Finals MVP honors. This success paved the way for his move to ASVEL on July 31, 2023.

With ASVEL, Scott has continued to showcase his skills in the French LNB Pro A, contributing significantly to the team’s success. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and his experience in high-pressure situations has made him a star player.