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.
LeBron James will not play in tonight’s All-Star Game, he says. He will rest, to help his lingering foot and ankle discomfort.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 16, 2025
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.
There is just absolutely no way MJ would do this. He always understood what his presence to the game meant.
— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) February 17, 2025
And to do it a few hours before the game starts — come on now. At least do it a couple days earlier so they can get somebody else in there. https://t.co/2bzoQf4j35
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.
Here’s the thing:
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) February 16, 2025
LeBron’s ankle soreness and foot injury isn’t new. If he wasn’t going to play in the All-Star Game, he should’ve let the league know because there are plenty of players who would’ve gone to SF to play.
Not to mention all the fans that went to see him.
Multiple current and former NBA players have echoed that sentiment, including Vince Carter, Draymond Green, and Jalen Rose.
Draymond Green: "I think [LeBron James] coulda helped somebody else out and said this earlier..."
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 17, 2025
Vince Carter: "There are a lot of guys who are worthy."
Jalen Rose: "He took a roster spot from somebody." #NBA https://t.co/O7qOijgsZN pic.twitter.com/hupGx4NZlT
It was also mentioned that a first-time All-Star could've been announced, thus elevating their status and reputation around the Association.
Really lame move from LeBron to wait until now to announce it. Could have done it earlier in the week so the NBA could have replaced him. A guy like Norman Powell could have gotten the call. https://t.co/95yCE0T53k
— Mo Dakhil (@MoDakhil_NBA) February 17, 2025
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.