It used to be a novelty if an NBA team had a European player in their squad, but it is now almost expected. Many European countries have been catching up with the standard of play in the United States, but also revolutionizing the game through playing in different styles and by producing players with different attributes. Teams must now scout countries all around the world to find the top talent. There is currently a crop of elite European players in the NBA, and some of these will go down as some of the finest players to grace the hardwood.
12. Ricky Rubio
Ricky Rubio may have spent a large chunk of his NBA career out injured, but when he is fit, he looks like one of the most promising young point guards in the league. The 24-year-old from Spain is an exciting pass first point guard (PG) with exceptional vision, and you do not get many PGs like this anymore. He was the 5th pick in the 2009 draft after an astonishing early career in Europe, which led many to believe he is the best European guard prospect ever. He did not play his first NBA game until 2011, and he made an immediate impact with his unselfish play. Injuries have held him back, however, with just 22 games played last season. Provided he can stay healthy, and improve his shooting, he could become an elite player in the NBA. In four seasons, Rubio averaged 10.2 PPG, 8.2 APG and 4.3 RPG.
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