NBAs Global Reach: Bridging Visa Hurdles to Keep Basketball Dreams Alive for International Players
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has long been a global powerhouse in the world of sports, and its reach continues to expand with the increasing number of international players joining the league. In fact, a record-tying 125 international players from 43 countries now account for nearly one-third of the league, a testament to the league's commitment to bringing basketball to the world.
One such player is Khaman Maluach, a 7-foot-2 big man who was born in South Sudan and raised in Uganda. Despite facing a major hurdle due to visa issues related to his South Sudanese passport, Maluach was able to walk across the Barclays Center stage in Brooklyn, New York, as the 10th overall pick in the NBA draft. He will begin his NBA career in Phoenix.
The league's international basketball operations division played a crucial role in helping Maluach navigate the complex visa and immigration issues that often arise for international players. With a staff of 38 operating out of offices in 14 countries, the division has expertise in immigration law and visa issues, as well as relationships with governments around the world, that have allowed the league to grow its global ambitions.
The demographic changes in the league have also reshaped it, with foreign-born stars now accounting for 10 of the last 21 Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards. In fact, when the Thunder's NBA championship parade passed through the streets of Oklahoma City on Tuesday, the title trophy was held by players from seven countries, including Canadian-born MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
The NBA's reach extends far beyond its players and teams, with programs like Basketball Without Borders and Basketball Africa League helping to develop the next generation of players around the world. The league also supports 30 million coaches, referees, and youth players annually through its international reach.
Despite facing challenges with his visa status due to policies from the Trump administration, Maluach is now one step closer to realizing his dream of playing in the NBA. The league has been by his side since he was just 14 years old and will continue to support him throughout his career.
"We've been on this journey...with Khaman since age 14, and we're going to continue on this journey with him through the rest of his career," said Troy Justice, the NBA's senior vice president and head of international basketball. "These are lifelong commitments that we make to all of our international players."
As the NBA continues to expand its global footprint, it remains committed to bringing basketball to the world and providing opportunities for players from all corners of the globe.
