The Internet is irate with LeBron James' last-minute All-Star announcement

LeBron James has stoked the flames.
ByMaxwell Ogden|
Los Angeles Lakers v Utah Jazz
Los Angeles Lakers v Utah Jazz | Alex Goodlett/GettyImages

The NBA All-Star Game has become one of the most controversial events in sports. Many have questioned how committed the players are to the event, with energy levels and a general sense of interest becoming annual points of debate and discussion.

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has stoked those flames with one of the most controversial choices in recent memory.

The All-Star Game has always been something of an exhibition, no matter how much nostalgia fights to suggest otherwise. One of the highlights of the weekend, however, were long the competitive fourth quarters that saw the best of the best going toe-to-toe in a unique competition.

In one of the most shocking last-minute decisions in All-Star Game history, James has arguably decreased the odds of a return to that formula by opting against playing in the event.

The internet has inevitably responded with shock and anger, expressing a range of opinions that all fall within those confines following the face of the NBA's controversial choice.

LeBron James to sit out 2025 All-Star Game

James remains the most popular player in the game, due in no small part to his legendary résumé. He's a four-time MVP, four-time Finals MVP, and four-time NBA champion, as well as a record 20-time All-NBA honoree and 21-time All-Star.

Whether fair or foul, the debate about the greatest of all time has inevitably been referenced in light of James' decision to sit out of the All-Star Game.

It may or may not be rational, but someone was destined to mention Michael Jordan in the aftermath of James' choice.

The talk about the greatest of all time isn't the real issue here, however. The bigger point to be made is that James' delayed decision may have cost another player a career-altering accolade. By waiting until the last possible second, he prevented the NBA from naming an alternate to play in his place.

Far be it from any of us to determine how confident James was in his ability to play, but this is a known injury that could've been planned for ahead of time.

Multiple current and former NBA players have echoed that sentiment, including Vince Carter, Draymond Green, and Jalen Rose.

It was also mentioned that a first-time All-Star could've been announced, thus elevating their status and reputation around the Association.

It's entirely possible that James was planning to play but ultimately decided not to risk furthering his injury, but this is certain to leave a sour taste in the NBA's mouth.

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