International Basketball Competitions
With the conclusion of the NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas, basketball enthusiasts have turned their attention to various international competitions, including the recently completed AfroBasket, which saw Senegal clinching the gold medal. Fans can also follow senior men’s tournaments across the Americas (AmeriCup) and Asia. However, the spotlight will soon shift to FIBA EuroBasket, set to commence on August 27.
Spain’s Dominance in EuroBasket
Spain has dominated this tournament, emerging victorious in four of the last six editions, winning three of the last five since its expansion to 24 nations. As Spain prepares to defend its title, several players are generating buzz for their potential fantasy implications, even as international play varies from the NBA style. Here are ten players to track closely throughout EuroBasket action.
Key Players to Watch
- Luka Dončić, Slovenia (Los Angeles Lakers)
The spotlight shines on Dončić, who has recently been featured in Men’s Health magazine, highlighting his ongoing commitment to fitness—a frequent topic since he joined the NBA. With veteran LeBron James nearing the end of his career, Dončić is clearly the focal point of the Lakers’ future. Having secured gold with Slovenia in 2017 alongside Goran Dragic, Dončić will look to lead his national team, with his health and fitness being closely scrutinized. His current status positions him as a probable top-five pick in fantasy drafts. - Giannis Antetokounmpo, Greece (Milwaukee Bucks)
Antetokounmpo will once again don the Greek national jersey amid rising speculation about his future with the Bucks. Despite outside rumors, he has remained tight-lipped. His performance in EuroBasket is crucial, but barring any serious injuries, he will maintain significant fantasy value heading into the 2025-26 season. - Nikola Jokić, Serbia (Denver Nuggets)
Over recent years, Jokić has established himself as a perennial fantasy standout, having ranked first in per-game value for four out of the last five seasons. After Serbia’s previous EuroBasket disappointment, they aim for a medal this year with Jokić at the helm. The Nuggets bolstered their roster in the offseason, which should bode well for Jokić’s fantasy potential, keeping him firmly as a top-three draft pick. - Alperen Sengun, Türkiye (Houston Rockets)
Sengun is poised to benefit from the Rockets’ acquisition of Kevin Durant, which could improve his game as a facilitator. Despite a dip in scoring last season, he excelled in rebounding and shooting efficiency. With Durant’s shooting presence, Sengun’s fantasy stock could rise, making him a player to watch going into the 2025-26 season.
