The 2025 NBA All-Star Game will have a significant absence, as LeBron James has decided not to participate in this Sunday's exhibition game, despite being named a starter. About 90 minutes before the game, the Los Angeles Lakers player held a press conference to announce that he would not play with the team selected by Shaquille O’Neal, the OGs of Shaq.
This decision marks the end of a 20-year streak in which James was a starter in the NBA All-Star Game, an event that marks the midpoint of the most important basketball league season. LeBron was selected for the All-Star Game for the first time since 2005 and had been selected every year since then; therefore, by sitting out this Sunday, he will miss what would have been his 21st game.
In his remarks to the media, LeBron James explained that he was dealing with discomfort in his foot and ankle, issues he has experienced in previous seasons. Despite not participating in the game in San Francisco, the player indicated that he would not take a break, as he would immediately return to Los Angeles to continue his rehabilitation.
"There is no time for vacations for me," said James, remaining optimistic about his quick recovery and the possibility of participating in the Lakers' next game, scheduled for Wednesday against Charlotte. This match was rescheduled due to the wildfires that affected Los Angeles earlier in the year.
