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The annual NBA All Star Game features the best and brightest stars from around the Association who get to showcase their talent in front of millions of fans. Every season gives us a few first time All-Stars that join the festivities for the NBA’s biggest exhibition game of the year. This season is of no exception, with four fresh faces ready to throw it down and dish it out on a night to remember.
With the game in The Big Easy this year, the 24 All Stars will look to emulate the excitement and vibrancy of the city where much is to be expected of this season’s electrifying first time All Stars. Here are the four guys who get to finally lay claim on the biggest exhibition game of the season.
Gordon Hayward: The star of the Utah Jazz is often referred to by Charles Barkley as one of the best-kept secrets in the NBA. But this forward won’t be a secret much longer as he’ll make his All-Star debut off the bench for the Western Conference. Averaging a career high in points and rebounds this season, Hayward is leading the Jazz to their best record in years and an all but guaranteed playoff spot in the West. Winners deserve to be rewarded, right?
DeAndre Jordan: Considered as one of the major snubs of the big game every season, Deandre Jordan finally gets to display his defensive and athletic prowess on the big stage. Deandre has been a major bright spot for the Clippers who have faced their share of struggles midway through the lengthy season. DJ has been averaging a double-double for the last three seasons and putting up some major highlights for the Clip Show every night. And it can’t be doubted that fans everywhere are looking forward to the eight-year veteran get his shot on a night of lobs, dunks, and dances.
Kemba Walker: In the East, the Charlotte Hornets star point guard has been killin’ it this season and put both the team and city on his back. With a career high in points and shooting percentage, Kemba has shown he’s one of the best guards the east has to offer, which has been further established by the coaches who voted him in as a reserve in a guard-heavy conference. Kemba is much deserving of the All-Star nod, and this will likely be the first of many to come.
Giannis Antetokounmpo: This incredibly talented point-forward is the only one of the first-time All Stars to be voted in a starter. The Greek Freak is doing everything for his team and putting on a show night in and night out. Not only is Giannis one of the most versatile players in the league, he’s averaging a career high in points, assists, rebounds, steals, and blocks. Not too shabby for a 22 year old far from his inevitably amazing prime.
These four talented stars will make their All Star debuts this Sunday, but it’s safe to say it likely won’t be their last for these hard working and skilled athletes on one of the most memorable nights in the Association.