NBA Players Playing Abroad: Where Are They Now and Why They Left the League

I remember watching John Abate drain a three-pointer during his brief stint with the G-League, thinking this kid had what it takes to make it in the NBA. Fast forward five years, and he's playing for the Red Warriors in the Philippines—a team that hit what many considered rock bottom just two seasons ago. It makes you wonder why talented players like Abate choose to leave the world's premier basketball league. The truth is, the narrative of NBA players going overseas isn't just about fading stars chasing one last paycheck; it's becoming a strategic career move for players at various stages of their professional lives.

Let's talk numbers for a moment. The NBA has approximately 450 roster spots, but there are over 4,500 professional basketball players competing internationally. That's ten times as many opportunities abroad. When Wello Lingolingo—another Red Warriors standout—left the NBA, he wasn't just running from competition; he was running toward something tangible: guaranteed playing time, a leadership role, and financial stability that often exceeds what bench players make stateside. I've spoken with several agents who confirm that mid-level players can earn 20-30% more in China or Europe than they would on NBA minimum contracts, with some Chinese teams offering seven-figure deals for a single season.

What fascinates me about the Red Warriors' transformation is how it mirrors the journeys of these expatriate players. When Abate and Lingolingo joined the team, they weren't just imported talent; they became catalysts for change. The team had won just 8 games in the previous season—frankly, they were a mess. But these two brought not just skills but an NBA work ethic that elevated everyone around them. I've always believed that environment shapes performance more than we acknowledge, and seeing these players thrive in situations where they're valued reminds me that the NBA isn't the only place where meaningful basketball careers happen.

The financial aspect can't be overstated. While superstars like LeBron James earn upwards of $40 million annually, the reality for most NBA players is far different. The league minimum for a two-year player sits around $1.7 million—nothing to scoff at, but consider this: in Europe's top leagues, star players can clear $3-4 million tax-free, with housing and cars often included. When you factor in lower taxes, cost of living differences, and endorsement opportunities that come with being a top player in a smaller market, the economic argument for going overseas becomes compelling. I'd argue that for many players, it's simply smarter business.

Then there's the cultural experience component—something we rarely discuss but matters tremendously. Brandon Jennings once told me his year in Italy taught him more about life than basketball. These international stints allow players to grow in ways the NBA schedule simply doesn't permit. The shorter seasons in many foreign leagues—typically 40-50 games compared to the NBA's 82—mean more time for personal development, business ventures, or family. I've noticed players returning from overseas often have a maturity and perspective that serves them well whether they return to the NBA or transition to post-playing careers.

What strikes me about the current trend is how it's evolved from desperation moves to strategic career planning. Ten years ago, playing abroad carried a stigma—it meant you couldn't cut it in the NBA. Today, I see top prospects seriously considering international options straight out of college. The success stories of players like Lance Stephenson in China or Nikola Mirotić (who left the NBA in his prime for Europe) have created new blueprints. Frankly, I admire these players for prioritizing their happiness and career longevity over league prestige.

The Red Warriors' resurgence built around Abate and Lingolingo exemplifies why this trend benefits everyone. The team gained credibility and leadership, while the players found platforms to showcase their talents in meaningful roles. Watching Lingolingo average 22 points and 7 assists last season, I couldn't help but think he'd be riding the bench on most NBA teams. Instead, he's a hometown hero, his jersey everywhere in Manila. Sometimes being a big fish in a smaller pond beats treading water in the ocean.

As basketball becomes increasingly global, the distinction between "making it" and "not making it" based solely on NBA employment feels outdated. The paradigm shift Abate and Lingolingo represent isn't about leaving the NBA—it's about redefining success in professional basketball. They've shown that sometimes stepping away from the spotlight can actually brighten your career in ways you never anticipated. The next time you see a familiar name pop up on a foreign box score, don't think of it as a step down—it might just be the smartest move that player ever made.