Since Dirk Nowitzki was drafted back in 1999, we haven't seen an international superstar of his kind in the NBA. However, the flashes of brilliance and recent play of Kristaps Porzingis provide hope that we're finally seeing the growth of "the next Dirk." The same could be argued for Giannis Antetokounmpo, as well.
In the 14 to 15 years between, we saw a lull in international stardom. There have been some really good players, like the Gasol brothers, but not one top-notch superstar.
Analysts and draft gurus expected a lot of players to fill that bill, but they never panned out.