Henry Biasatti

Henry Biasatti was an Italian-Canadian professional athlete who holds the distinction of being the first international player in National Basketball Association history and the only Canadian to play at the top professional level in both basketball and baseball. He played for the Toronto Huskies.

Player Profile

Henry Arcado Biasatti was born on January 14, 1922, in Beano, Italy, and passed away on April 20, 1996, in Dearborn, Michigan.

He stood 180 cm tall and his weight was last listed at 79 kg. He shot left and played guard in basketball and first base in baseball.

High School and College Career

Biasatti attended Assumption University in Windsor, Ontario, Canada where he played college basketball.

Professional Career

Biasatti made basketball history when he debuted with the Toronto Huskies on November 1, 1946, becoming the first international player in what would later become the NBA. He was later drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 2nd round of the 1947 BAA Draft.

In baseball, he played for the Philadelphia Athletics during the 1949 MLB season.

After his playing career, Biasatti moved into coaching, serving as the basketball coach at his alma mater, Assumption University, from 1956 to 1962.

Career Highlights:

• First international player in NBA history
• Only Canadian to play at the top professional level in both basketball and baseball