Israeli NBA Star Deni Avdija Joins Elite List of Top Players Without College Experience

Israeli basketball player Deni Avdija has been honored by inclusion in a prestigious list of the 25 best NBA players in history who never played college basketball. The list, published by Yardbarker on August 14, 2026, features legendary names such as LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Nikola Jokic, and Luka Doncic. Avdija earned his spot following a breakout season with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he was selected for his first NBA All-Star game.

Avdija's path to the NBA is notable for bypassing the American college system entirely. Instead, he developed his skills in European basketball, including time with Maccabi Tel Aviv, before being drafted ninth overall in the 2020 NBA Draft. After four seasons with the Washington Wizards where he struggled to stand out, his move to Portland marked a turning point, elevating him to a key player role.

During the 2025-26 season, Avdija averaged approximately 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists per game, demonstrating his versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Yardbarker highlighted his transformation from a complementary player in Washington to a central figure in Portland's lineup. This recognition reflects Avdija's significant progress and solidifies his status as a reliable and multifaceted NBA talent early in his career.

The list also includes other players who entered the NBA without college experience, such as Dirk Nowitzki, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Garnett, and Moses Malone, underscoring the diverse routes to success in the league. Avdija's inclusion among these elite players marks a major milestone and acknowledges his impressive development since joining the NBA.