Western and Eastern Conference Starters
The 2024-25 NBA All-Star starters were announced on Thursday, featuring familiar faces and some contentious decisions. In the Western Conference, seasoned stars like Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant were selected, joining Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference, Jalen Brunson and Donovan Mitchell secured the backcourt spots, alongside Jayson Tatum, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Karl-Anthony Towns in the frontcourt.
LaMelo Ball’s Snub in the East
In the East, the fan vote heavily favored LaMelo Ball, earning him the most votes among guards. However, the media and player votes tilted the balance, leaving Ball to fight for a reserve spot. Instead, the starting backcourt was awarded to Brunson and Mitchell, who are both enjoying stellar seasons.
Controversy in the West: Curry Over Edwards
The West’s selections have sparked debates, particularly around Stephen Curry’s inclusion over Anthony Edwards. While Curry is undeniably a generational talent and the All-Star game is in San Francisco, Edwards’ current performance arguably makes him more deserving of a starting role.
Why Edwards Deserved the Nod
- Scoring Edge: Edwards is averaging 26.2 points per game, significantly more than Curry’s 22.6 PPG.
- Three-Point Prowess: Edwards leads the league with 184 made 3-pointers, compared to Curry’s 151. Edwards is also shooting them at a better percentage (42.5% to Curry’s 40.7%).
- Team Impact: Edwards has been a key figure for the Timberwolves, playing a central role in their success this season.
A New All-Star Format: Bracketed Tournament
This year, the All-Star format shifts to a bracketed tournament featuring four teams of eight players. The three All-Star teams will be joined by the winner of the Rising Stars game. While the NBA aims to boost competitiveness, it remains to be seen if this experimental format will add excitement or dilute the event’s appeal.
Final Thoughts
The 2024-25 NBA All-Star selections highlight both the enduring legacy of veteran players and the emergence of new stars. While the fan and media votes celebrated household names like Curry, LeBron, and Durant, players like Anthony Edwards and Victor Wembanyama continue to make their case as the future of the league.
