Honoring the Success Stories of Asian NBA Players
Year by year, the NBA continues to expand its global reach, welcoming fresh talent from all corners of the world. Yet, the impact and influence of Asian NBA players often get overlooked. From the towering presence of Yao Ming to the versatile skills of Rui Hachimura, the incredible ‘Linsanity’ phenomenon led by Jeremy Lin, and the dynamic play of Jordan Clarkson, Asian NBA players have carved out remarkable careers in one of the world’s most competitive sports leagues. They’ve earned their place as honored NBA players from overseas.
The success stories of these athletes have gone way beyond their home countries, inspiring millions not just in Asia, but across the globe. With a perfect mix of grit, skill, and dedication, they’ve become more than just basketball players – they’re pioneers. In this article, we’re celebrating their incredible journeys and showing how they’ve completely reshaped the NBA as we know it today.
4 NBA Stars That Hail From Asia
1. Yao Ming
Yao Ming is undeniably the most iconic Asian player in NBA history. Standing at 7’6″, the Chinese center made an immediate impact when he was selected as the first overall pick in the 2002 NBA Draft. With the Houston Rockets, Yao not only dominated on the court but also played a major role in popularizing basketball in China, becoming one of the most recognizable athletes worldwide.
Yao Ming’s stats included eight All-Star appearances and a dominant presence on both ends of the floor, solidifying his place as a legend in the NBA.
Yao’s unique combination of size, skill, and a soft touch around the rim made him a force on both ends of the floor. Over his career, he was an 8-time NBA All-Star and led the Rockets to multiple playoff appearances. His influence in China, where basketball’s popularity skyrocketed, can’t be overstated. Today, Yao’s legacy sets the standard for Asian NBA players and solidifies him as arguably the greatest NBA Chinese basketball player to ever step on the hardwood.
Yao Ming’s Career Stats
- 8× NBA All-Star
- 2002 NBA All-Rookie First Team
- Hall of Famer
2. Rui Hachimura
When you think of Japan and basketball, Rui Hachimura should be the first name that comes to mind. This guy isn’t just another player – he’s one of the most exciting and promising Japanese basketball players in the NBA in recent years. Drafted by the Washington Wizards in 2019, Hachimura made history as the first Japanese-born player to be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft. And trust me, he’s been turning heads ever since.
Hachimura is known for his ability to score in just about every way possible – whether it’s backing down in the post, knocking down shots from the perimeter, or running the floor in transition. His play style and approach to the game have helped elevate not only the Washington Wizards but also the Los Angeles Lakers, who he’s been playing for the past few seasons. As his influence on the court continues to grow, Hachimura has become one of the most popular basketball players in Japan, with millions of fans cheering him on both in the U.S. and in Japan.
Rui Hachimura’s Career Stats
- 2019 All-Rookie Team
- Career averages: 12.7 points, 4.9 rebounds per game
3. Jeremy Lin
When Jeremy Lin burst onto the scene in 2012, no one could have predicted the whirlwind of success he would bring to the NBA. Lin’s meteoric rise with the New York Knicks, known as “Linsanity,” captivated fans worldwide. Being a former Harvard player who went undrafted in the 2010 NBA Draft, and overcame adversity like no other, eventually becoming the first American of Chinese descent to play in the NBA.
While Jeremy Lin’s NBA career did not have hit ‘All-Star’ status, his time with the Knicks is what really put him on the map. Known for his electrifying performances, Lin averaged over 14.6 points and 6.2 assists per game, helping lead the team on an unexpected winning streak that had the basketball world buzzing. Though his career had its share of ups and downs, there’s no denying Lin’s impact on the NBA. As one of the best Asian basketball players the league has ever seen, ‘Linsanity’ is a moment that still resonates with fans everywhere.
Jeremy Lin’s Career Stats
- 2012 NBA Most Improved Player Candidate
- Career averages: 11.6 points, 4.3 assists per game
4. Jordan Clarkson
A name that tends to be overlooked when discussing current Asian NBA players is Jordan Clarkson Born to an African-American father and a Filipino mother, Clarkson proudly reps his Filipino roots. Known for his explosive scoring and off-the-bench spark, Clarkson has become one of the league’s most valuable sixth men.
His time with the Utah Jazz has been nothing short of impressive, racking up multiple 20+ point games and even snagging the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2021. With his killer ball-handling skills, smooth shooting, and ability to create his own shot, Clarkson has become a basketball icon in the Philippines. Whether starting or coming off the bench, Clarkson continues to prove his worth as a key player for the Jazz and is a beloved figure for fans across the globe.
Jordan Clarkson’s Career Stats
- 2021 NBA Sixth Man of the Year
- Career averages: 16.0 points, 2.9 assists per game
Questions of the Day
Are there any Asian players in the NBA?
Yes, there are several Asian players in the NBA, including players like Yuki Kawamura, Rui Hachimura, among others.
Is the NBA popular in Asia?
Yes, the NBA is incredibly popular in Asia, with a massive fan base, particularly in China, Japan, and the Philippines.
Who is the first Asian player in the NBA?
The first Asian player in the NBA was Wataru Misaka, a Japanese-American point guard who played for the New York Knicks in 1947
Who is the Asian guy on the Lakers?
The Asian player currently on the Lakers is Rui Hachimura
What percent of the NBA is Asian?
The percentage of NBA players who are Asian is currently less than 1-2%, though it varies slightly year by year with new players joining the league.
