10 Best Hispanic NBA Players

Hispanic NBA players have made significant contributions to the NBA, breaking barriers and showcasing extraordinary talent on the court. From iconic figures who shaped the league’s history to rising stars, these athletes are role models and trailblazers. 

With that in mind, let’s highlight the 10 best Hispanic NBA players, celebrating their skills, cultural influence, and basketball legacies. From groundbreaking performances, championships, to redefining professional basketball, the following players have left an indelible mark on the game. Let’s take a look at their achievements and the impact they’ve had on the NBA:

10. Jose Alvarado – Sneaky Defensive Player

Career Stats: 8.1 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 3.2 APG; 41.3 FG%, 35.0 FG3%
Notable Achievements: N/A
*still active

José Alvarado has quickly emerged as one of the most dynamic and exciting young Hispanic NBA players. Known for his tenacious defense, hustle, and infectious energy, Alvarado has become a fan favorite. Born to Puerto Rican parents, Alvarado proudly represents the Hispanic community in the NBA. Namely, he embodies the work ethic and determination that resonates deeply with fans.

Alvarado went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft but earned his spot with the New Orleans Pelicans through sheer perseverance. His signature “steal” plays, where he sneaks up behind unsuspecting ball handlers, lets him give spectacular defensive stops. His nickname, “The Grit,” reflects his aggressive approach and never-give-up attitude on the court.

Despite his smaller stature, Alvarado is a key contributor for the Pelicans’ defense and providing a spark off the bench. His impressive skills and leadership have helped elevate the team’s competitiveness, particularly in high-stakes moments. Moreover, Alvarado is a solid option for NBA player props, thanks to his defensive tenacity and hustle on the court.

While he’s still early in his career, Alvarado has a chance to be one of the best Hispanic NBA players. His tenacity, hard work and heart can lead to success in the world’s most competitive basketball league.

9. Santi Aldama – Stretch Big Man from Spain

Career Stats: 9.8 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 1.9 APG; 45.9 FG%, 34.5 FG3%
Notable Achievements: N/A
*still active

Santi Aldama, a standout from Spain, is quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising Hispanic NBA players. He was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2021, where they rely on his versatility and high basketball IQ. His size, His size, smooth shooting touch, and ability to play both forward positions, make him a versatile two-way player.

Aldama started with the esteemed Spanish club, Real Madrid, before transitioning to college basketball at Loyola Maryland in the U.S. His international experience has shaped his ability to adapt and thrive at the NBA level. Aldama blends the European style of play with the athleticism required in the NBA.

With the Grizzlies, Aldama has shown consistent growth, developing into a reliable scorer and defender. Additionally, his high basketball IQ, ability to stretch the floor, and interior presence make him a valuable asset to Memphis.

In sum, Aldama is not only making waves in the league with his high-level play. He also serves as an inspiration to young basketball players in Spain and across the globe.

8. Luis Scola – Staunch Inside Presence

Career Stats: 12.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.6 APG; 49.3 FG%, 33.9 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x All-NBA Rookie 1st Team (2007-08)

Luis Scola is widely regarded as one of the best Hispanic NBA players, known for his remarkable skills, basketball IQ, and leadership on the court. Born in Argentina, Scola’s impact transcended the NBA, as he became a symbol of excellence in both international and professional basketball. 

After a successful career in Europe, Scola made his NBA debut with the Houston Rockets in 2007, where he immediately established himself as a skilled forward with a deadly mid-range game and exceptional rebounding ability.

Scola’s style of play, characterized by his poise, footwork, and high basketball IQ, made him a constant threat in the post and around the basket. Over his 10-season NBA career, he played for several teams, including the Phoenix Suns, Indiana Pacers, and Brooklyn Nets, consistently contributing with his scoring and leadership.

Perhaps most notable is Scola’s performance with Argentina’s national team, where he played an integral role in their gold-medal victory at the 2004 Athens Olympics and their success in FIBA competitions. His international achievements have solidified his place as one of the most accomplished Hispanic basketball players in history. 

Luis Scola’s enduring legacy, both in the NBA and globally, serves as an inspiration to Hispanic athletes pursuing greatness in basketball.

7. Devin Booker – Sweet-Shooting Guard for Phoenix

Career Stats: 24.4 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 5.2 APG; 46.4 FG%, 35.5 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 4x NBA All-Star, 4x All-NBA selections
*still active

Devin Booker, one of the brightest stars in the NBA today, is widely regarded as one of the best Hispanic NBA players, thanks to his incredible scoring ability, versatility, and leadership on the court. Born to a Mexican-American father, Booker proudly represents his Hispanic heritage while making a significant impact in the league. 

After being selected as the 13th overall NBA pick by the Phoenix Suns in the 2015 NBA Draft, Booker quickly made a name for himself as one of the league’s most explosive offensive talents.

Known for his smooth shooting stroke, Booker is capable of scoring from all areas of the court, whether it’s hitting deep three-pointers or driving to the basket. His standout performance in the 2021 NBA Finals, where he led the Suns to their first Finals appearance in nearly 30 years, solidified his place as one of the NBA’s elite players.

As one of the NBA picks with a bright future, Booker has consistently exceeded expectations, becoming a perennial All-Star and a key figure in the Suns’ success. With his offensive brilliance and leadership, he has elevated Phoenix’s chances in NBA odds, making them a formidable force in the Western Conference. 

Devin Booker’s impact on the game continues to inspire and represent the strength of Hispanic NBA players.

6. J.J. Barea – Diminutive Dynamo

Career Stats: 8.9 PPG, 2.1 RPG, 3.9 APG; 42.4 FG%, 35.2 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion (2011)

J.J. Barea is undoubtedly one of the best Hispanic NBA players, known for his impact on the game despite his size. At 5’10”, Barea defied the odds to become an NBA player, showcasing heart, determination, and skill on the court.

Born in Puerto Rico, he proudly represented his heritage throughout his career. Barea served as an inspiration to countless aspiring basketball players from Latin America.

His NBA journey began when he went undrafted in 2006, but he quickly found a home with the Dallas Mavericks. His speed, agility, and playmaking ability were key contributors to the Mavericks’ 2011 NBA Championship win. Specifically, Barea’s leadership, playmaking, and clutch performances in critical moments were instrumental in securing the title for Dallas.

Beyond his success with the Mavericks, Barea had a strong international presence, representing Puerto Rico in multiple FIBA tournaments and further solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer for Hispanic athletes. 

His contributions to both the NBA and international basketball have earned him a place among the best Hispanic NBA players, inspiring generations to come.

5. Brook Lopez – Floor-Spacing Center

Career Stats: 15.9 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 1.5 APG; 49.7 FG%, 35.2 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections
*still active

Brook Lopez is often overlooked when discussing the best Hispanic NBA players, but his contributions to the game, particularly as a versatile big man, make him a noteworthy figure. Born to a Mexican-American father, Lopez has helped raise the profile of Hispanic players in the NBA. Known for his remarkable ability to stretch the floor, Lopez has revolutionized the center position with his three-point shooting and shot-blocking abilities, making him a unique threat on both ends of the court.

Lopez’s career has been defined by his adaptability, starting with his time with the New Jersey Nets (now Brooklyn Nets), where he was known for his scoring and rebounding. Over time, his game evolved, and with the Milwaukee Bucks, he became a key defensive presence, playing a vital role in their 2021 NBA Championship win. His rim protection and ability to hit threes have made him a modern-day center who can contribute in various ways.

For fans partaking in NBA betting lines, Lopez is often a solid pick for props like blocks and points, especially in matchups where his outside shooting and defensive prowess come into play. His impact on the court, combined with his heritage, secures his place among the best Hispanic NBA players.

4. Marc Gasol – Defensive Anchor

Career Stats: 14.0 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 3.4 APG; 48.1 FG%, 36.0 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x Defensive Player of the Year (2012-13), 3x NBA All-Star, 4x All-NBA selections

Marc Gasol is undoubtedly one of the best Hispanic NBA players, renowned for his exceptional skills, basketball IQ, and leadership on the court. Hailing from Spain, Gasol has made a significant impact on both the NBA and international basketball. Standing at 7’1″, his size, combined with his ability to pass, defend, and score, made him a versatile center and one of the most complete players of his generation.

Gasol’s NBA career began with the Memphis Grizzlies, where he became the face of the franchise and a pivotal figure in their “Grit and Grind” era. Known for his elite defense, Gasol was awarded the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2013 and became a multiple-time All-Star. 

His court vision and passing ability were exceptional for a big man, making him a unique and valuable asset on both ends of the floor. Additionally, Gasol also won a championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019 as one of the defensive anchors with Kawhi Leonard.

Marc Gasol also achieved great success on the international stage with Spain. For instance, he led them to multiple FIBA medals, including a gold at the 2006 FIBA World Championship and silver at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. Gasol’s international accomplishments and his impact in the NBA have cemented his place as one of the best Hispanic NBA players of all time.

3. Al Horford – Seasoned, Reliable Veteran

Career Stats: 12.9 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 3.2 APG; 51.0 FG%, 37.7 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 5x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections
*still active

Al Horford is undeniably one of the best Hispanic NBA players who’s still currently playing at a high level.  He is celebrated for his remarkable versatility, leadership, and consistency throughout his career. Born in the Dominican Republic, Horford proudly represents his Hispanic heritage while as a key player for multiple teams. His well-rounded game and intelligence on the floor have made him a staple in the league for over a decade.

Horford is a standout center and power forward, using his basketball IQ, exceptional passing, and shot-blocking to anchor his teams. Moreover, his leadership on and off the court made him a respected figure in the locker room and his peers. Horford has earned multiple All-Star selections and has been pivotal to the Celtics’ deep playoff runs. This includes their 2022 NBA Finals appearance, and their 2024 Finals win against the Dallas Mavericks.

Additionally, Horford’s international success with the Dominican Republic national team has also contributed to his legacy. His contributions to the NBA and international basketball solidifies Horford’s place among the best Hispanic NBA players.

2. Pau Gasol – The Spanish Sensation

Career Stats: 17.0 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 3.2 APG; 50.7 FG%, 36.8 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (2001-02), 6x NBA All-Star, 5x All-NBA selections

Pau Gasol is widely regarded as one of the best Hispanic NBA players during his long career in the league. His exceptional skills, leadership, and lasting impact on both the NBA and international basketball speak volumes of his excellence. 

Pau was one of the most skilled big men of his era; he’s got excellent post-game, rebounding, and passing abilities. Moreover, his combination of size and skill set made him a unique and invaluable player for his teams.

Gasol’s most significant accomplishments came during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers. He played a pivotal role in their back-to-back NBA championships in 2009 and 2010 as the second option. As the Lakers’ starting center, he formed a dominant partnership with Kobe Bryant, a great 1-2 punch on offense. That said, his contributions on both ends of the floor were also crucial to their success.

On the international stage, Pau Gasol was a cornerstone of Spain’s national team. He led them to multiple FIBA World Cup and European Championship medals. Ultimately, Gasol’s legacy as one of the most accomplished Hispanic NBA players is well-earned. Apart from his accolades, he is a standout global ambassador for basketball, inspiring future generations of Hispanic athletes worldwide.

1. Manu Ginóbili – Instant Energy

Career Stats: 13.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.8 APG; 44.7 FG%, 36.9 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 4x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2007-08), 2x NBA All-Star, 3x All-NBA selections

Manu Ginóbili is widely regarded as one of the best Hispanic NBA players, thanks to his unique skill set. His relentless drive contributed to the San Antonio Spurs’ dominance in the 2000s and 2010s.

Ginóbili brought a distinctive flair to the NBA, blending European basketball finesse with a fearless, high-energy playing style. Ginóbili came off the bench as a valuable sixth man for Duncan and Parker, providing energy off the bench. His impact on the court was immediate with the Spurs in 2002, becoming an integral part of their championship runs.

Ginóbili was known for his versatility, capable of playing multiple positions in the backcourt. His signature Eurostep move became iconic, showcasing his creativity and craftiness around the basket. Over his 16-year NBA career, Ginóbili won four NBA championships (2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014) and was a two-time All-Star.

Beyond his NBA success, Ginóbili was a standout for Argentina’s national team. His leadership yielded a gold medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics and a silver medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Ginóbili’s international success and NBA excellence cemented his place as one of the most accomplished and influential Hispanic NBA players.