The NBA announced that it has 125 international players from 43 countries across its 30 franchises, matching the previous record for international representation.

For the sixth consecutive year, Canada leads the way with the most foreign players, contributing 21 players (and they also have their own team in the league, the Toronto Raptors). Following Canada, France comes in second with 17 players. French basketball is thriving, especially with the last two number one picks in the draft being from France: Victor Wembanyama and Zaccharie Risacher.

Australia takes the third spot with 13 players, Germany is fourth with 8 players, and Serbia rounds out the top five with 6. In total, 61 of the 125 international players are from Europe, while 17 hail from Africa.

Spain only has Santi Aldama from the Memphis Grizzlies. During a press conference on Tuesday, the league's deputy commissioner, Mark Tatum, said, "All these players are generating incredible interest in their home countries, regions, and globally."

"We see a huge opportunity to capitalize on that momentum," he added. As part of their effort to internationalize the league, Tatum highlighted that this Saturday, the Miami Heat will face the Washington Wizards in Mexico City, marking the 33rd NBA game in the Mexican capital since 1992.

The deputy commissioner also talked about the potential for future team expansions in the league, mentioning that Mexico City could be an option for the NBA. "There's no doubt that Mexico City will be a place we consider and evaluate if we decide to expand," Tatum said, pointing out that it's the largest city in North America and has an "NBA-style arena." "We're seeing the level of passion for basketball," he added. "The Capitanes (an NBA G League team) have been a remarkable success, leading in attendance and merchandise sales."