First Time In 22 Years! LeBron James Picked For All-Star Game But Without...

Last Updated:February 02, 2026, 10:29 IST

Lakers' LeBron James (AFP Photo)

Lakers legend LeBron James was selected to his 22nd consecutive NBA All-Star Game on Sunday (February 1), in a stunning record-extending feat. However, to water down the impact a bit, this was also the first time he was not selected as a starter but among seven reserves from both the Eastern and Western conferences.

The 75th NBA All-Star Game will be held o n February 15 in Los Angeles and will introduce a revised tournament-style format featuring one World team and two teams composed of United States players, with each roster containing a minimum of eight players.

LeBron, the NBA's all-time leading scorer, was named among the Western Conference reserves despite debate over his selection following an injury-affected season. The four-time Most Valuable Player is averaging 21.9 points, 6.6 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game for the  Lakers, who hold a 29-18 record.

"Obviously, it's super humbling—mad respect to the coaches for them seeing how I'm still playing at this stage of my career," he told reporters on Monday.

"It means a lot to my family and people who have been following my career, my LeBron faithful that's been following my journey," LeBron said, adding, "It's always rewarding just from a humble standpoint to be able to be rewarded for what you put your work into, so it's pretty cool."

He was joined among West reserves by Anthony Edwards, Jamal Murray, Chet Holmgren, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Deni Avdija.

Eastern Conference reserves include Jalen Johnson, Donovan Mitchell, Karl-Anthony Towns, Pascal Siakam, Norman Powell, Scottie Barnes and Jalen Duren. Any injury replacements will be selected by NBA commissioner Adam Silver.

The previously announced starters from the West are Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Stephen Curry and Victor Wembanyama. Eastern starters include Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, Jalen Brunson and Cade Cunningham.

The news came after the Lakers' loss to the New York Knicks, who continued their strong run with a 112-100 victory at Madison Square Garden, extending their hot streak to si x wins. OG Anunoby scored 25 points and Landry Shamet added 23 off the bench, while Josh Hart chipped in 20. Jalen Brunson recorded 12 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists. LeBron scored 22 points.

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First Published:

February 02, 2026, 10:29 IST

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