Jusuf Nurkic Recognized As One of NBA’s Premier International Talents

Now more than ever, the NBA is filled with talented players from across the globe. In his recent piece,NBA.com’s Joel Ortizdecided to craft an All-International First, Second and Third Team, commemorating the league’s premier overseas talent. Among those mentioned wasPortland Trail Blazersbig Jusuf Nurkić.

Nurkić joinedOklahoma City Thunderguards Luguentz Dort and Josh Giddey, as well asChicago Bullsbig Nikola Vučević andNew Orleans Pelicansbig Jonas Valančiūnas on the All-International Third Team.

Ortiz made a small mention of Nurkic, praising him and teammate Anfernee Simons for their work in keeping the Trail Blazers in Play-In contention despite the litany of injuries and trades the team has dealt with in recent months.

Nurkic, an eight-year veteran, is currently on the mend, nursing a plantar fasciitis injury that will keep him out for the next four weeks. Over 56 games this season — Nurkic’s most since 2018-19 — the Bosnian center averaged 15.0 points per game, a career-high 11.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists while also notching career highs in field goal percentage (53.5), 3-pointers made (15) and free throw rate.