For the first time in more than two decades, the name LeBron Jameswill not be heard when the starting lineups are announced for the NBA All-Star Game of the 2025-26 season. His name will still be there, but on a list where it is rare to find a legend.
Although the Los Angeles Lakersstar has once again defied logic by being selected for his twenty-second (22nd) consecutive All-Star appearance, the 2026 edition marks a bittersweet milestone and uncharted territory for the “King”: he will come off the bench.
James’ streak as a starter has come to an end. Since his first selection in 2005, LeBron had been voted an All-Star starter uninterruptedly for 21 straight years by fans, media, and players.
However, at 41 years old and in his 23rd season, the generational shift has finally materialized in the voting, relegating the league’s all-time leading scorer to the Western Conference bench.
Despite losing his place in the starting five, his selection by the coaches as a reserve extends his own historic record. James further distances himself from Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the player with the most All-Star selections in NBA history. His presence in the event validates a season in which, despite his age, he remains a fundamental piece of the Lakers’ aspirations-although he will now have to adjust to a different pregame routine, waiting his turn while seated, an image the NBA has not seen in a generation.
In fact, some even believed that James might also appear in the Slam Dunk Contest, but that possibility has already been ruled out.
The other reserves and emerging talent
Alongside LeBron James, the league’s coaches selected an elite group to complete the rosters, highlighting a blend of established veterans and rising superstars.
In the Western Conference, joining James on the bench are marquee names such as Stephen Curry (Warriors), who also relinquishes his starting spot, Devin Booker (Suns), Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves), Zion Williamson (Pelicans), De’Aaron Fox (Kings), and center Domantas Sabonis (Kings).
In the Eastern Conference, the reserves include Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers), Jalen Brunson (Knicks), Bam Adebayo (Heat), Paolo Banchero (Magic), Tyrese Maxey (76ers), Jaylen Brown (Celtics), and Trae Young (Hawks).
The 2026 All-Star Game will not only celebrate LeBron’s unprecedented longevity, but will also serve as definitive proof that the league’s torch is officially being passed-and that the Los Angeles star may be beginning the final stretch of his journey.
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