NBA Today: Top 5 European players in the league right now

Dallas Mavericks' Dirk Nowitzki during his final game in an illustrious 21-year career
Dallas Mavericks' Dirk Nowitzki during his final game in an illustrious 21-year career

#3 Rudy Gobert

Gobert has won the Defensive Player of the Year accolade in successive seasons
Gobert has won the Defensive Player of the Year accolade in successive seasons

Rudy Gobert - born in Saint-Quentin, France - is widely known for his defensive ability, great passing and ball-handling skills. Currently playing for the Utah Jazz, he has claimed the Defensive Player of the Year accolade in successive seasons (17/18 and 18/19), while being named in the All-Defensive First Team on three separate occasions.

Rudy began his professional career with French side Cholet Basket, making his senior debut in 2010 and staying there for two seasons. Entering the 2013 NBA Draft, his nickname was 'The Stifle Tower', due to his large wingspan.

Initially selected by the Denver Nuggets as the 27th pick, he was soon traded to the Jazz and has since played more than 400 games for them - averaging a double-double in points and rebounds per game. Representing his native France, he won a bronze medal at the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup and another bronze at the EuroCup the following year.

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