Every season, the All-NBA First Team spotlights the league’s elite, but the college roots of these stars often go overlooked. This year’s selections offer various backgrounds, from powerhouse NCAA programs to international journeys. Let’s explore which college teams are best represented by the NBA.
The 5 College Basketball Teams Represented In the All-NBA 1st Team
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s path to NBA stardom began at the University of Kentucky, a school renowned for producing pro-level talent. During his lone season with the Wildcats, he showcased his versatility and poise, quickly becoming a standout under John Calipari’s guidance.
After Kentucky, Shai’s ascent was rapid. Drafted in 2018, he became the Oklahoma City Thunder’s franchise cornerstone and, in 2025, earned MVP honors and a unanimous First Team selection. His college experience at Kentucky laid the foundation for his relentless work ethic and leadership.
The 2024-25 Kia All-NBA First Team 🔥
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Nikola Jokić
Donovan Mitchell
Jayson Tatum#NBAAwards | @Kia pic.twitter.com/7DhntOyNpg— NBA (@NBA) May 24, 2025
Nikola Jokić
Among players in the All-NBA, Nikola Jokić is different because he never played college basketball in the United States. Before the Denver Nuggets took him in the draft, Jokić honed his skills in Serbia. His international experience makes it clear that elite players are found everywhere.
Even though league rules meant Jokić never played college basketball, his NBA impact has been groundbreaking. He received multiple MVP awards, plus a Finals MVP trophy, and his style as a center has reshaped the position. Jokić’s success shows that basketball is popular everywhere.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Just alikeJokić, Giannis did not attend a U.S. college to play basketball. Right after leaving Greece, Giannis was drafted by the Bucks, where he brought intense athleticism and never-ending motivation.
Though he’s hinted he could have attended Duke, Syracuse, or Old Dominion in college, Giannis began his European career. Despite his long history outside the U.S., he has dominated the NBA, proving that with multiple MVPs and a championship.
Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum’s single season at Duke University was enough to cement his status as a top NBA prospect. At Duke, he displayed the scoring prowess and versatility that became his trademarks with the Boston Celtics.
Tatum’s collegiate success translated seamlessly to the pros. Now a multi-time All-Star and NBA champion, he continues to embody the Duke basketball tradition of producing elite forwards. His time at Duke remains a key chapter in his development.
Donovan Mitchell
Many first noticed Donovan Mitchell at the University of Louisville in college because of his incredible athleticism and goal scoring. Playing two seasons for the Cardinals prepared him well for the NBA and made him well-known as someone who could perform under pressure.
KEEP READING: The 5 College Basketball Teams Represented in the NBA’s All-Defense First Team
After coming to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Mitchell has become a leading guard in the league. The way he faced and led at Louisville made him the fearless player he became.
This year’s All-NBA First Team is a blend of NCAA bluebloods and international stars, each bringing a unique background to the league’s highest honor. Their journeys remind us that greatness can emerge from anywhere—a storied college program or the courts of Europe.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and baseball!
