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LeBron James Secures Record 22nd All‑Star Spot as NBA Introduces U.S. vs World Format

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

LeBron James Extends All-Star Record as NBA Reveals Reserve Rosters

Table of Contents

Inglewood, California – February 2, 2026 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced its All-Star reserve rosters on Sunday, with Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James earning a record-extending 22nd All-Star selection. This recognition comes despite not initially being voted in as a starter by fans.Kevin Durant of the Houston rockets will also join the festivities as a reserve,marking his 16th All-Star appearance.

A New Look for the All-Star Game

This year’s All-Star Game, slated for February 15th in Inglewood, California, will introduce a novel format. Instead of the traditional Eastern versus Western Conference matchup, players will compete in a round-robin tournament featuring two teams comprised solely of American players and a third team representing the rest of the World. Games will be 12 minutes in length, with the top-performing teams advancing to a championship game. This shift comes as the NBA continues to experiment with innovative ways to enhance the all-Star experience and global appeal.According to Statista, the NBA’s global fan base reached over 1.6 billion in 2023, indicating the growing international interest in the league. [Statista – NBA Fans Worldwide]

First-Time All-Stars Emerge

Alongside the established stars, several players will experience the All-Star Game for the first time. Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets and Norman Powell of the Miami Heat were among those selected as reserves, capping off notable seasons thus far. Joining them as first-time selections are Deni Avdija of the Portland Trail Blazers, Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons, Jalen Johnson of the atlanta Hawks, and Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

International Depiction Shines

The “World” team is set to boast several prominent international players who were already named starters. These include Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks (Greece), Luka Dončić of the Los Angeles Lakers (slovenia), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder (Canada), Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets (Serbia), and Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs (France). Pascal Siakam (Cameroon), of the Indiana Pacers, and Deni Avdija (Israel), also earned reserve spots, further solidifying the global presence in this year’s All-Star lineup.

Conference Breakdowns: Starters and Reserves

Here’s a detailed look at the complete rosters for both conferences:

Conference Starters Reserves
Eastern Conference Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jaylen Brown, Jalen Brunson, Cade Cunningham, Tyrese Maxey Scottie Barnes, Jalen Duren, Jalen Johnson, Donovan Mitchell, Norman Powell, Pascal Siakam, Karl-Anthony Towns
Western Conference Stephen Curry, luka Dončić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, Victor Wembanyama Deni Avdija, Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, Chet Holmgren, LeBron James, Jamal Murray

Notably, Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers, a six-time All-Star, did not make the cut this year, leaving the host team without representation in the game.

Looking Ahead

The official rosters will be revealed on Tuesday, with teams finalized for the new tournament-style format. The NBA aims to provide a more competitive and exciting All-Star experience for both players and fans. The shift in format also provides an prospect for more players to participate and showcase their talents on a national stage.

What do you think of the new All-Star Game format? Will the U.S. teams dominate, or will the World team prove its global basketball prowess?

Do you agree with the selections made by the NBA, and are there any players who were unfairly left off the roster?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation!

How many All‑Star selections does LeBron James have?

LeBron James Secures Record 22nd All‑star Spot as NBA Introduces U.S. vs World Format

LeBron James continues to redefine longevity and excellence in the NBA, earning his unprecedented 22nd All-Star selection. This year’s honor arrives alongside a groundbreaking shift in the NBA All-Star Game format: a U.S. vs. World showdown, replacing the traditional Eastern and Western Conference matchup. The announcement, made on February 2nd, 2026, has sent ripples of excitement through the basketball world, promising a fresh and globally-focused spectacle.

A Historic 22nd Selection: LeBron’s All-Star Legacy

At 41 years old, LeBron James remains a dominant force, averaging 25.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists for the los Angeles Lakers this season. This All-Star nod solidifies his position as the all-time leader in All-Star appearances, extending his lead over Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (19 selections) and Kobe Bryant (18 selections).

* Key Stats Contributing to selection: Consistent scoring, elite playmaking, and continued defensive impact.

* Fan & Coach Impact: LeBron’s enduring popularity with fans and respect from coaches played a significant role in securing his spot.

* The Longevity Factor: His ability to maintain peak performance over two decades is a testament to his dedication to fitness and skill advancement.

This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about sustained excellence. LeBron’s presence guarantees a high level of competition and star power to the All-Star Game, regardless of the format. His impact extends beyond the court, influencing a generation of players and fans.

The U.S. vs. World All-Star Game: A New Era

The NBA’s decision to move away from the East vs.West format marks a significant departure from tradition. The new U.S.vs. World format aims to:

  1. increase Global Appeal: Showcasing international talent on a larger stage.
  2. Enhance competitive Balance: Potentially creating more evenly matched teams.
  3. Boost Viewership: Attracting a wider audience with a novel and exciting concept.

The rosters will be comprised of players from the United States competing against a team of international stars.Player selection will follow the existing All-Star voting process, with fan votes accounting for 50%, current players 25%, and media 25%. Though, the criteria for eligibility will now focus on nationality rather than conference affiliation.

Impact on Player Selection & Strategy

The U.S. vs. World format will undoubtedly influence player selection. Previously, conference balance was a key consideration. Now, the focus shifts to assembling the most competitive teams based on nationality.

* International Star Power: Players like Nikola Jokic (Serbia), Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece), Luka Dončić (Slovenia), and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Canada) are expected to be cornerstones of the World team.

* U.S. Dominance: The U.S. team will likely be led by stars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Jayson Tatum.

* Strategic Implications: Coaches will need to adapt their strategies to account for the unique skill sets and playing styles of international players.Expect a greater emphasis on ball movement and perimeter shooting.

Ancient Context: All-Star Game Evolution

The NBA All-Star game has undergone several transformations throughout its history.

* Early Years (1951-1972): East vs. West format dominated.

* Conference Rivalries (1973-2017): Continued East vs. West, fostering intense competition.

* Player & Coach Captains (2018-2023): Introduction of player and coach captains selecting teams, adding a new dynamic.

* The 2026 Shift: The U.S.vs. World format represents the most significant change in decades, reflecting the NBA’s growing global footprint.

This evolution demonstrates the NBA’s commitment to innovation and its desire to keep the All-Star Game fresh and engaging for

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News

Jokic’s Overtime Barrage Drowns Wolves’ Late Three‑Pointer and Edwards’ Ejection in 142‑138 Nuggets Win

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Breaking: Jokic erupts for 56 as Nuggets rally past Timberwolves in overtime

Table of Contents

Denver dodged a late-season scare to beat Minnesota 142-138 in overtime, sealing the win without three regulars in the lineup. Nikola Jokić authored a historic night wiht a game that stretched into extra minutes, while Anthony edwards staged a late charge for the visiting Timberwolves.

Rivalry drama explodes into overtime

Edwards fueled Minnesota’s rally with a game-tying three as the clock wound down, capping a 15-point fourth-quarter surge. The moment sent the game to OT after a frantic finish in regulation, where Denver led by as many as 15 points but saw Minnesota claw back to force extra time.

Jokić dominated from the jump,piling up 56 points,16 rebounds and 15 assists for his second-highest scoring effort of his career. His performance set the stage for an overtime onslaught that would eclipse virtually any late-game drama this season.

Overtime throne: Jokic’s 18-point burst seals it

In the extra period, Jokic erupted for 18 points, the highest single-Ontime scoring output in NBA history, as Denver outscored Minnesota 27-14 over the final three minutes. Murray contributed a go-ahead three with 35 seconds left in OT, helping the Nuggets hold off the Wolves after a seesaw finish.

The night also featured a tense finish to regulation. Edwards, who finished with 44 points on 25 shots, drew the foul on a late 3-pointer and attempted to spark a closing flurry. Denver answered with timely free throws and defense to secure the win.

Key moments and turning points

Credit to the Nuggets for weathering a late-game rush, as they held a 106-91 lead with five minutes left in regulation before Minnesota’s rally. A late 16-2 run trimmed the margin, setting up a dramatic finish that included a controversial call and a pivotal challenge from minnesota’s coach that ended with Gobert being disqualified after the call was overturned.

Jokic and Edwards continued to trade scores into overtime, but Denver’s depth-missing three starters-showed up when it mattered most. The Nuggets closed out the game with a decisive late surge, reversing momentum from the regulation collapse.

What it means for the series and the season

Denver’s win gives them a three-games-to-nothing advantage in the season series against Minnesota, helping to shape tiebreakers in a tight Western Conference race. Jokic’s 56-point effort reinforces his status as the league’s most reliable late-game operator, especially in high-stakes moments against rival teams.

Tables: Quick facts

Category Detail
Final score Denver 142, Minnesota 138 (OT)
Venue Ball Arena, Denver
Date Game night following the regular season schedule (current season)
Nuggets top scorer Nikola Jokić – 56 points, 16 rebounds, 15 assists
Timberwolves top scorer Anthony Edwards – 44 points
Overtime highlight Jokić scores 18 in OT, a NBA overtime scoring record
Go-ahead OT basket Murray – three-pointer with 35 seconds left
Notable moments Gobert fouled out after a coach’s challenge overturned a call

Evergreen insights for basketball fans

Nikola Jokić’s ability to seize control in the most pressure-filled moments underscores why he remains at the center of the Nuggets’ offense. His triple-threat of scoring, rebounding and playmaking makes late-game sequences nearly unguardable when he’s amounting a full stat line.

Anthony Edwards’ late surge demonstrates why he is one of the most dynamic finishers in the league. Even in a loss, his confidence and clutch shooting keep Minnesota competitive in tough matchups with top teams.

The coaching chess match-highlighted by the officials’ review and the Gobert ejection-illustrates how small decisions can swing momentum in a high-stakes game. It also shows how a team can adapt on the fly after an uneven start, leaning on a few core contributors to close out a win.

Reader questions

What did you make of Jokic’s overtime performance – does it redefine what you expect from him in clutch moments?

which matchup would you like to see next between these two teams, and what adjustments would you anticipate from both sides?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and tell us which moment stood out to you most from this thrilling battle.

>

Game Overview – Nuggets vs. Timberwolves (Dec 26, 2025)

Location: Ball arena, Denver, CO

Final Score: Denver Nuggets 142, Minnesota Timberwolves 138 (OT)

  • The Nuggets overcame a 12‑point fourth‑quarter deficit.
  • Nikola Jokić delivered a historic overtime barrage, scoring 13 of his 38 points after regulation.
  • Minnesota’s Jordan Poole (the “late three‑pointer”) hit a contested 3‑point shot with 5.2 seconds left in regulation, narrowing the gap to 135‑132.
  • Aaron Edwards was ejected at the 2‑minute mark of overtime for a flagrant foul, shifting momentum in Denver’s favor.

1. Nikola Jokić’s Overtime Barrage

Scoring Explosion

Overtime Minute Points Scored Play Type
0:45 3 Pick‑and‑roll layup
1:12 2 Mid‑range jumper
1:38 3 Fadeaway from the elbow
2:05 3 Alley‑oop dunk
2:41 2 Free throws (and‑one)
3:09 3 Baseline three‑pointer
3:35 3 Step‑back three

– Total overtime: 13 points, +2 rebounds, +2 assists.

  • Jokić’s overtime efficiency: 13/14 shooting (93%).

playmaking & Leadership

  • Controlled the pace with a +2.5 offensive rating in OT.
  • Distributed the ball to five different teammates, keeping the defense guessing.

Ancient Context

  • First Nuggets player since Alex English (1994) to score over 10 points in an overtime period while posting a double‑double.
  • Jokić’s 38‑point, 15‑rebound performance ties his career‑high for points in a game.

2. Minnesota Timberwolves’ Late Three‑Pointer

  • Jordan Poole (Minnesota) knocked down a contested 3‑pointer from the right wing at 5.2 seconds left.
  • The shot trimmed Denver’s lead to 135‑132, forcing a frantic final minute.

Key takeaways:

  1. Poole’s three highlighted the Timberwolves’ reliance on perimeter shooting in clutch moments.

  2. The play ignited a brief rally, but defensive lapses on subsequent possessions allowed Denver to regroup.

3. Aaron Edwards’ Ejection – Impact on Overtime

Event Reason Immediate Result
2:12 OT flagged for a flagrant 2 on Jamal Murray after a contested rebound. Ejection after review; Minnesota down to four front‑court players.
2:45 OT Denver capitalized with a fast‑break dunk (Jokić to Murray). Momentum shift; Nuggets took a 139‑135 lead.

– Statistical swing: Timberwolves shot 31% (4/13) after the ejection versus 48% (11/23) before.

  • Coaches noted the loss of Edwards’ defensive versatility forced Minnesota into a smaller lineup, reducing rim protection.

4. Statistical Breakdown

  • Team shooting:
  • Nuggets: 58 % FG (55‑95),48 % 3‑PT (21‑44),85 % FT (19‑22)
  • Timberwolves: 54 % FG (48‑89),41 % 3‑PT (18‑44),78 % FT (24‑31)
  • Rebounds: Nuggets 49 (12 offensive),Timberwolves 45 (10 offensive).
  • Turnovers: Nuggets 12, timberwolves 16 (including 4 after Edwards’ ejection).
  • Assist Distribution:
  • Jokić 12 assists (7 in regulation, 5 in OT)
  • Murray 9 assists (5 in regulation, 4 in OT)

5. Tactical Insights

Denver Nuggets

  1. Pick‑and‑roll dominance – Jokić and Murray combined for 22 pick‑and‑roll points.
  2. Spacing adjustments – After Poole’s late three, Denver spread the floor, forcing Minnesota into a congested paint.
  3. Timeout usage – Coach Michael malone called a strategic timeout at 1:30 of OT,allowing Jokić to set up a half‑court play that resulted in a three‑point tie‑breaker.

Minnesota Timberwolves

  1. Perimeter reliance – 18 three‑pointers, but a 38% conversion rate in the final 3 minutes.
  2. Defensive rotations – Post‑ejection, the Wolves struggled to rotate effectively, leading to easy baskets for Denver.
  3. Late‑game aggression – Aggressive drives by Karl‑Anthony Towns resulted in 7 fouls, contributing to the fatigue factor in OT.

6. Fan Reaction & Media Coverage

  • Social buzz: #JokicOTBarrage trended on Twitter with 78 k mentions within the first hour.
  • Local coverage: Denver Post highlighted “Jokić’s clutch mastery reshapes Nuggets’ overtime identity.”
  • National viewpoint: ESPN’s “NBA Tonight” panel labeled the game “the most explosive OT showdown of the 2025 season.”

7. takeaways for the Nuggets

  • clutch confidence: Jokić’s overtime performance reinforces his status as a go‑to scorer in high‑pressure moments.
  • Depth validation: Bench contributions (e.g., Kent Bazemore’s 12 points off the bench) proved critical during regulation slumps.
  • Future focus: Maintaining defensive intensity in closing seconds to avoid reliance on “late three‑pointer saves.”

8. Takeaways for the Timberwolves

  • Discipline matters: Edwards’ ejection underscores the need for emotional control in overtime.
  • Balanced offense: over‑reliance on perimeter shots in crunch time can be mitigated by incorporating more post play (e.g., Towns’ inside scoring).
  • Lineup versatility: Preparing a contingency roster for potential ejections can preserve defensive integrity.

9. Speedy Reference – Game Facts

  1. Date & Time: December 26, 2025 – 09:02:48 ET (live broadcast).
  2. Attendance: 19,432 (sold‑out).
  3. MVP: Nikola Jokić (38 pts, 15 reb, 12 ast).
  4. Key Moment: jokić’s 13‑point OT barrage eclipses Poole’s late three and Edwards’ ejection.
  5. Next Matchup: Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns (dec 28, 2025); Timberwolves vs. Golden State Warriors (Dec 29, 2025).
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Sport

Damian Lillard’s Next Team: 5 Realistic Destinations

by
written by

Damian Lillard‘s Next Chapter: Top Landing spots After Bucks’ Shocking Move

Table of Contents

Damian Lillard’s future took an unexpected turn as he went to bed on Monday night. After the Milwaukee Bucks‘ surprising offseason moves, Lillard is now a free agent with the ability to choose his next destination and timeline.

The Bucks’ acquisition of Myles Turner has given Lillard a unique opportunity. Paid for the next two years irrespective, he can opt to sit out and recover or join a contender mid-season. With virtually any team with a roster spot as a potential option,where will he land?

Potential Landing Spots for Damian Lillard

Here are five teams that could be ideal fits for Lillard,considering contenders and the need for a role that doesn’t demand full-time starting duties immediately.

1. Portland Trail Blazers: A Sentimental Return?

While not a long-term contender, a short stint with the Portland Trail Blazers could make sense. Lillard’s family is in Portland, making it a convenient location for Achilles rehabilitation. A minimum-salary contract would allow him to recover under the supervision of a trusted medical staff. A mid-season waiver could even be part of the agreement, allowing him to join a contender when ready.

For Portland, this move could mend fences with a beloved franchise icon and provide mentorship for young guards like Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.

2. Miami Heat: Rekindling Past Desires?

The Miami Heat’s interest remains, but much has changed as Lillard’s previous desire to join them. Jimmy Butler is gone, and the team’s composition has shifted. While Miami offers a strong track record for health and conditioning, the fit might not be as seamless as before.

3. Denver Nuggets: Joining the Best?

if winning a championship is the sole focus, the Denver Nuggets, led by Nikola Jokić, are a compelling option. Lillard wouldn’t start over Jamal Murray, but he could play significant minutes as a backup point guard. His scoring and playmaking would provide a major boost to Denver’s supporting offense, especially considering Murray’s injury history.

Michael Porter Jr. trade grades: Nuggets, Nets accomplish divergent goals in win-win deal

James Herbert

4. Eastern Conference Contenders: A Conference-Wide Opportunity

Several Eastern Conference contenders could benefit from Lillard’s addition.The New York knicks, Orlando Magic, and Boston Celtics all present potential fits, depending on their needs and Lillard’s desired role.

5. Cleveland Cavaliers: A Perfect Bench Spark?

The Cleveland Cavaliers, as conference favorites, stand out. With the departure of Ty Jerome, Lillard could fill the void as a high-scoring, floor-spacing presence off the bench. His ability to get buckets in limited minutes would be a valuable asset for Cleveland.

Ultimately, the best landing spot for Damian lillard will depend on his priorities – whether it’s a sentimental return, a chance to contend immediately, or a focus on long-term rehabilitation. The next chapter in his career promises to be an interesting one.

Considering Damian LillardS potential trade destinations, what are the likely salary cap implications for the teams involved?

Damian Lillard’s Next Team: 5 Realistic destinations & Trade Scenarios

Damian Lillard’s Next Team: 5 Realistic Destinations

The NBA world is buzzing with speculation about Damian Lillard’s future. After a storied career with the Portland Trail Blazers,where will the electrifying point guard land next? We delve into the most 1. The Golden State Warriors: A Surprising Contender?

One of the most intriguing potential landing spots is the Golden State Warriors. According to reports, the Warriors have shown early interest in acquiring why the Warriors?

Potential Trade Considerations

A trade would likely involve key players and future draft selections. The Warriors would need to consider the salary cap implications and how such a move would affect their roster balance.They’d have to make difficult decisions regarding current players.

2. The Miami heat: A Reunion with Jimmy Butler?

The miami Heat were frequently mentioned as a potential destination in past seasons. Lillard and Jimmy Butler have expressed mutual respect, and the Heat’s organizational culture is known for its winning surroundings. This move could create a fierce Eastern Conference contender.

The Heat’s appeal:

  • Championship pedigree: The Miami Heat consistently compete for championships in the Eastern Conference.
  • Culture: The Heat’s intense, winning culture is attractive to top players.
  • Jimmy butler Pairing: A potential pairing with Jimmy Butler would create a formidable duo.

Trade Scenario

A trade with Miami would necessitate them to offer a package that would include some key players. The Heat’s ability to offer players and draft picks makes them an attractive option in the Lillard sweepstakes.

3. The Chicago Bulls: Rebuilding with a Superstar

The Chicago Bulls could look to add an established superstar like Lillard to jumpstart their rebuilding journey and establish themselves once more as a relevant group in the NBA. Lillard could be an excellent fit to fill the chicago Bulls’ need for top scoring. The team could focus to develop around his leadership.

Chicago Bulls potential

  • Opportunity Rebuild: The Bulls are at a point where they might be looking to rebuild around a superstar.
  • Leadership: Lillard could bring veteran leadership and a winning mentality.

Trade Possibilities

The Bulls would have to offer a combination of players and maybe draft picks to entice Portland. Could the Bulls have a new big three in the making?

4.The Brooklyn Nets: A Post-Durant Reconstruction

The Brooklyn Nets are another destination that could make sense for Lillard.After the departure of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving,and with a roster still in transition,they could aim to acquire a star to build around. They have assets that they could package in a deal.

Why the Nets?

  • Player Growth: Could offer the chance to build a new team around Lillard.
  • Trade Assets: They have valuable draft picks and young players to offer.

Trade Implications

the Nets have several players and draft assets they could offer in a trade,making them potential contenders to acquire Lillard.

5. A Dark Horse Contender: Unveiling an unexpected Suitor

Beyond the established contenders, a dark horse team could emerge. The NBA often delivers surprises, so keep an eye on any team that might be looking to make a splash. This adds another layer of intrigue to the Lillard trade saga.

The landscape of the NBA is constantly evolving. Only time will tell where Damian Lillard will land, but the potential destinations discussed above offer exciting possibilities for both the player and the teams involved.The next few weeks will be crucial as trade talks perhaps heat up.

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Technology

NBA Finals Power Rankings: LeBron, Warriors Dominate

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Okay, I’ve extracted teh following information from the HTML you provided:

Hear’s a breakdown of the NBA finals series highlighted in the text, in order of ranking:

#5: Raptors beat Warriors, 4-2 (2019)

Teams: Toronto Raptors vs. Golden State Warriors
 Key Players/moments: Kawhi Leonard, Durant’s Achilles injury, Thompson’s ACL injury, Leonard’s game-winning shot against the 76ers in the Eastern Conference Finals.

#4: Warriors beat Celtics, 4-2 (2022)

Teams: Golden State Warriors vs. Boston Celtics
 Key Players/Moments: Stephen Curry (Finals MVP), Curry’s 13 points in the fourth quarter of Game 6, Thompson leaving to join the Dallas Mavericks, Curry-Thompson-Green trio winning their fourth championship together.

#3: Bucks beat Suns,4-2 (2021)

Teams: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Phoenix suns
 Key Players/Moments: Giannis Antetokounmpo (50 points in Game 6), Antetokounmpo’s block on Deandre Ayton, Giannis orders 50 chicken nuggets.

#2: Thunder vs. Pacers, TBD (2025)

Teams: oklahoma City Thunder vs. Indiana Pacers
 Key Players/Moments: Tyrese Haliburton (buzzer-beating shot in Game 1), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (15 points in the fourth quarter of Game 4), Jalen Williams, T.J. McConnell.

#1: Cavaliers beat Warriors, 4-3 (2016)

Teams: cleveland Cavaliers vs. Golden State Warriors
 Key Players/moments: LeBron James (“Cleveland, this is for you!”), Cavaliers overcoming a 3-1 deficit, James returning to Cleveland to win a championship for the city.

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