America has always been the domain where every basketball player wants to be. The country breathes the sport and events are handled immensely with media attention, broadcasts live on TV and much more. Not surprisingly, more and more young Dutch basketball players are making the move to America to further develop their basketball skills. With the ultimate goal of perhaps playing in the NBA, America’s premier basketball league.
This year the NBA also, finally, has Dutch success. And what success it is, for the first time ever, three Dutch basketball players are playing in the same season in the biggest basketball league in the world. Malevy Leons, Quinten Post and Jesse Edwards all started in college and attempted to get drafted during the most recent version of the NBA draft. You can read their story below.
Malevy Leons
Malevy Leons started in Amsterdam, where he took his first steps at Apollo Amsterdam. In 2019, Leons left for America, where he played two seasons for Mineral Area College. He then made the move to Bradley University, where he played the past three seasons.
In October 2024, Leons signed a contract with Oklahoma City Thunder, making him the seventh Dutchman in the NBA. This was a big moment in his career, and he became the first Dutchman in 13 years to make his debut in the NBA.
Quinten Post
Quinten Post’s dream began on the streets of Amsterdam. As a young boy, he started his basketball career at Apollo Amsterdam, where his talent quickly stood out. As a teenager, Post impressed with his skills, which piqued the interest of foreign clubs. The choice eventually fell on the United States, where he decided to play college basketball.
Quinten Post made his debut for the Golden State Warriors on Dec. 27, 2024. In doing so, he became the eighth Dutchman ever to play in the NBA. Since his debut, Post has been getting more and more playing time and has managed to draw attention to himself with impressive statistics. Most recently, Post accounted for five rebounds and three assists, making him the first Dutchman in a long time to reach double digits in points in a single game.
Jesse Edwards
Jesse Edwards began playing basketball at the age of 15 at Apollo Amsterdam. After graduating high school, he decided to move to the United States, where he found his way to college basketball through a boarding school. Here he played for Syracuse and West Virginia.
Last summer, Edwards was not selected in the NBA Draft, but despite that, he got the opportunity he needed. Minnesota Timberwolves offered him a two-way contract, meaning he can play for both the first and second teams. Edwards played primarily in the G-League this season with Iowa Wolves. Jesse Edwards made his debut for the Minnesota Timberwolves a week ago, making him the third Dutchman with playing time in the American basketball league this season.
So with the debut of Malevy, Quinten and Jesse, for the first time ever, three Dutch basketball players are active in the same season in the NBA. A unique achievement that shows that the level of Dutch basketball is growing.
Wondering what your chances are or want to know more about basketball and studying in America? Take a look at our basketball page and sign up for an introductory meeting. We will gladly look at the possibilities for you.
