The 10 non-NBA players who have shone the most at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

The 2024 Olympic Basketball Tournament has concluded, marking the end of significant basketball action during the summer. With several months of rest before most leagues around the world, including the NBA, resume their activities, focus shifts to roster building and talent tracking.

While most deals have already been sealed, the constant emergence of new information and changing situations remains crucial. In particular, some players have leveraged their performance in these Olympic Games to attract NBA attention and could be close to making the leap to the world's most prestigious league.

Here is a list of 10 standout players in the Olympics who are not yet playing in the NBA but could do so in the near future.

1. Guerschon Yabusele (France)

Guerschon Yabusele, a member of the silver medal-winning French team, was one of the top players in the tournament. Despite being drafted in the first round of the NBA Draft in 2016 by the Boston Celtics, Yabusele only played two seasons before his rookie contract was terminated. However, after excelling in the EuroLeague with Real Madrid and shooting 46.3% from three-point range, Yabusele has once again positioned himself as a potential candidate for a return to the NBA.

2. Mathias Lessort (France)

Lessort, who has shown impressive growth in recent seasons, has established himself as one of the top players in the EuroLeague. The option to join the NBA is limited by his rights, held by the New York Knicks. However, his energetic style of play and defensive ability could make him a valuable role player in the league.

3. Thomas Walkup (Greece)

Walkup, a naturalized Greek point guard, has been a key piece for his team due to his defense and selfless play. Although his playing style seems better suited to the EuroLeague, Walkup remains a player who could make an impact in the NBA if given the right opportunity.

4. Bruno Caboclo (Brazil)

Caboclo, known for his athleticism and shot-blocking ability, has significantly improved his game in the EuroLeague. Despite having previously been part of the NBA, his recent performance suggests that he could contribute significantly if given another chance in the league.

5. Filip Petrusev (Serbia)

Petrusev, a versatile player with good size and skill, has proven to be a solid option in the paint. Despite a brief stint in the NBA, his performance in the Olympics could pave the way for a return.

6. Aleksa Avramovic (Serbia)

Avramovic is a shooting guard known for his scoring and defensive abilities. Although he has not yet played in the NBA, his performance in the Olympics and experience in the EuroLeague make him an interesting prospect for teams in need of a versatile scorer.

7. Isaac Bonga (Germany)

Bonga, who had a brief stint in the NBA before returning to Europe, has significantly improved his defense and could be a valuable defender in the NBA if given another opportunity.

8. Isaia Cordinier (France)

Cordinier, a versatile player with defensive skills, has improved his offensive game in recent years. Although his NBA rights were renounced, his current performance suggests he could be a useful addition to a team.

9. Carlik Jones (South Sudan)

Jones, who has been instrumental in South Sudan's recent success, has NBA experience and has shown his ability to play at the highest international level. With his ball-handling skills and energy, he could have another shot in the NBA.

10. Josh Hawkinson (Japan)

Hawkinson, a player who has had a successful career in Japan, has proven to be one of the best in Asia. With skills both inside and outside the paint, he could be a valuable rotation player in the NBA if given the opportunity.

These players, thanks to their standout performances in the Olympics, have shown they have what it takes to compete at the highest level and could be considered by NBA teams in the near future.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 10 jugadores no NBA que más han brillado en los Juegos Olímpicos de París 2024