SAN FRANCISCO — A memorable moment unfolded during last year’s All-Star Game when LeBron James engaged in a lighthearted exchange with Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic about his inaugural All-Star experience. The conversation picked up by microphones quickly garnered attention.
When asked whom he played with during his first appearance, James humorously mentioned names like Wilt Chamberlain and Bob Cousy, claiming it was back in “’68.” However, the reality is that James’ first All-Star Game took place in 2005, and he has yet to miss one since, making this Sunday’s event in San Francisco his 21st appearance, a feat that further solidifies his all-time record.
“It’s always a special occasion and genuinely humbling to be named an All-Star,” James shared. “As a kid, I harbored dreams of being on that stage. It’s always a highlight for me, and I’m thrilled about it.”
This season, he surpassed 70 million career All-Star votes from fans—a new record—and has secured the title of leading vote-getter ten times, another historic achievement on a long list of his accomplishments in the All-Star realm.
As the oldest active player and the all-time leading scorer in the NBA, James is set to play on a team selected by Shaquille O’Neal this weekend, alongside prominent players such as Stephen Curry from the Golden State Warriors, Kyrie Irving from the Dallas Mavericks, and others.
Noteworthy statistics from James’ All-Star career include:
– **Games Played and Started**: He is in first place, with this selection marking his 21st, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s total by two. James also has started 21 All-Star games, which is six more than Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan.
– **MVP Awards**: James is tied for third place in All-Star MVPs with three, sharing this honor with legends like Michael Jordan and Shaquille O’Neal, while Kobe Bryant and Bob Pettit lead with four each.
– **Points**: With 434 points in All-Star Games, James holds the top position among all players. Kobe Bryant ranks second with 290, followed by Kevin Durant with 268. This record may endure, especially with the new mini-tournament format focusing on first-to-40 points.
– **Oldest All-Star**: Turning 40 on December 30, James will soon join the ranks of the oldest All-Stars, following Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Dirk Nowitzki, who made their final All-Star appearances in their twilight years.
James also holds the title for the most All-Star minutes (537), alongside leading in field goals made (182) and attempted (355), as well as three-pointers attempted (138). His rankings in other All-Star statistics include:
– **3-Pointers Made**: 3rd place with 41, trailing Stephen Curry (51) and Damian Lillard (42).
– **Assists**: 3rd place with 113, behind Chris Paul (128) and Magic Johnson (127).
– **Rebounds**: 6th place, totaling 114, with Wilt Chamberlain (197) and Bob Pettit (178) leading the pack.
As he prepares for this year’s All-Star Game, LeBron James continues to build on his legendary status in the league, showcasing his enduring talent and unmatched contributions to the sport.
