The new NBA season will again feature strong African representation, from established stars to teenagers taking their first steps in the league. The continent's basketball roots run deep across the league's rosters, spanning Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ivory Coast, the Republic of the Congo and Jamaica.
Joel Embiid remains one of the most talented centres of his generation. The Cameroonian big man, born 16 March 1994, anchors the Philadelphia 76ers with power, technique and scoring range from the paint to mid-distance. Across 38 appearances in 2025-2026, he averaged 26.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.2 blocks per game, shooting 48.9 percent from the field, 33.3 percent from three and 85.4 percent from the line. His availability continues to shape the 76ers' ambitions in the Eastern Conference.
At the Indiana Pacers, Pascal Siakam brings experience and versatility. The Cameroon power forward, an NBA champion in 2019 with Toronto, posted 24 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists a game in 2025-2026, adding 1.1 steals while shooting 48.4 percent from the field and 35.8 percent from three. Born 2 April 1994, he is a veteran presence expected to keep influencing results in Indiana.
Jonathan Kuminga of the Minnesota Timberwolves offers athletic power and rim-attacking ability that point to long-term potential. The DR Congo-born forward, born 6 October 2002, will look to make more consistent decisions and sustain his defensive commitment in Minnesota.
