The 2025 NBA All-Star Game reserves were revealed on Thursday, sparking both celebration and controversy across the league. The announcement has led to heated discussions, particularly from the Phoenix Suns, Charlotte Hornets, and Atlanta Hawks, who expressed their disappointment over notable exclusions.
The Phoenix Suns have been vocal in advocating for guard Devin Booker's inclusion. Booker ranks as one of just three Western Conference guards with at least 14 games scoring 30 points or more this season. Additionally, he is one of only two players in the West to be in the top-15 for both scoring and assists. Despite his impressive statistics, Booker was not selected as a reserve for the upcoming All-Star Game.
Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets conveyed their dissatisfaction via social media. They posted a meme without a caption following the exclusion of LaMelo Ball. Ball had led the initial fan voting returns earlier this month but did not make the final cut as a reserve.
Reserves for the All-Star Game are chosen by NBA head coaches, which differs from the selection of starters. The process for selecting starters involves a combination of 50% fan votes, 25% current NBA players' votes, and 25% media panel input. This system often leads to spirited debates among fans and teams alike.
The Atlanta Hawks also expressed their discontent with Trae Young's omission. Young leads the NBA in assists per game at 11.4 and boasts the most point/assist double-doubles this season. He also tops the Eastern Conference in both 30-point, 10-assist games and 20-point, 10-assist games. Despite these achievements, Young was not named a reserve. The Hawks responded with a photograph of Young giving a thumbs down, accompanied by a detailed breakdown of his impressive statistics.
Amongst the selected reserves were six players who will be making their first appearance at an All-Star Game: Victor Wembanyama, Cade Cunningham, Evan Mobley, Jalen Williams, Tyler Herro, and Alperen Sengun. Their selection marks a significant milestone in their burgeoning careers.
Domantas Sabonis also made the reserve list, leading the league in double-doubles and rebounds per game with an average of 14.2, alongside scoring an average of 20.9 points.
The All-Star Game festivities are set to commence on February 14 in the Bay Area, promising an exciting showcase of basketball talent despite the debates surrounding the reserve selections.
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