Career: Palmeiras (Brazil, 1999-2001), Bauru Basquete (Brazil, 2001-2003), Phoenix Suns (USA-NBA, 2003-06).

Probably the most gifted player on the Brazilian national team. Scoring more than 28 points per game in Brazil as a 20-year-old, Barbosa had to keep looking for new challenges until he landed in the NBA a year before being eligible for the draft. He was lucky enough to end up with a Phoenix team whose game was made to let him shine. The Suns offense, built on pace and reactivity, was just the right environment for his tremendous creativity to blossom. After a tough second season in the league, Leandrinho had a breakout season this year, averaging more than 27 minutes per game and 13.1 points. During the Suns' long playoffs run, he made his presence felt even more, especially in the second round against the Clippers.

His quickness and athleticism make him a nightmare for any defender in the league, whether he chooses to score from the outside or drive down the lane. With Marcelinho on his side, he should be one of the main attractions in Japan.