How many NBA players are there ever?

By Edcel Panganiban December 03, 2023 21:06 GMT+4 min read

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been home to some of the greatest basketball players in history. From the iconic names of Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson to the modern-day legends like LeBron James and Stephen Curry, the league has seen an array of talented individuals grace its courts. But have you ever wondered just how many players have stepped foot on an NBA court throughout its rich history? In this article, we will explore the numbers and delve into the approximate count of NBA players to date.

The NBA, originally known as the Basketball Association of America (BAA), was founded in 1946. It initially consisted of 11 teams, with each team comprising a roster of approximately 12 players. Over the years, the league expanded, merged with the National Basketball League (NBL), and eventually became the NBA we know today in 1949.

During the early years, the number of players in the league was relatively small. However, as the popularity of basketball grew and the league expanded, more players were given the opportunity to showcase their skills. The NBA gradually increased its team count, allowing for a larger pool of players to participate.

In the 1960s, the NBA underwent significant expansion. The number of teams increased, leading to a greater demand for players. Consequently, the league expanded its rosters to accommodate more talent. By the 1961-1962 season, teams were allowed to carry up to 10 players on their roster.

In subsequent years, the roster sizes continued to grow. By the 1970s, teams were permitted to have 11 or 12 players. This trend continued into the 1980s and 1990s, with the roster size typically ranging between 12 and 15 players.

Today, the NBA consists of 30 teams, each with a maximum roster size of 15 players. This means that a total of 450 players have the opportunity to play in the league during any given season. However, it is important to note that not all players on NBA rosters get significant playing time. Some players may spend most of their careers on the bench or in the developmental league.

While it is challenging to determine the exact number of NBA players throughout history, we can estimate the figure based on various factors.

Taking into account the league's expansion, roster sizes, and the average career length of NBA players, it is safe to say that the number of players who have played in the NBA falls somewhere between 4,000 and 5,000.

The estimation takes into consideration that some players have had multiple stints in the league, while others have had brief appearances. Additionally, it is important to remember that the NBA has seen its fair share of international players, further adding to the diversity of its player pool.

The NBA has witnessed the rise of countless talented individuals who have left an indelible mark on the game of basketball. Though it is difficult to provide an exact figure, we can approximate that the number of NBA players throughout history falls between 4,000 and 5,000. With each passing season, the league continues to showcase the skills of both established stars and emerging talents, creating a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.