SAN FRANCISCO — The NBA All-Star Game promises excitement with a new format this year at Chase Center, but one familiar face will be missing from the court. 21-time All-Star LeBron James has announced that he will not be participating, ending a record streak of 20 consecutive All-Star Games dating back to 2005.
The All-Star teams, drafted by NBA on TNT analysts Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith, will showcase a new four-team format this year. Alongside Friday night’s Rising Stars winner, the NBA aims to revitalize the All-Star Game with a radical overhaul of its traditional format. Unfortunately, fans will not see LeBron James in action, as he has decided to rest ongoing foot and ankle injuries instead of competing.
The NBA All-Star Game will kick off at 5 p.m. ET, with coverage available on TNT, TruTV, and Max. Fans can also register with The Athletic for exclusive coverage by NBA writers, providing in-depth insights and analysis.
### LeBron’s Absence: A Wise Decision
LeBron James cited persistent foot and ankle injuries as the reason for his absence from this year’s All-Star Game. The Lakers star expressed disappointment in missing the game but emphasized the importance of prioritizing his health for the remaining 30 games of the regular season. With the Lakers fighting for a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference, James believed it crucial to focus on his recovery and ensure his availability for the team’s upcoming challenges.
Despite speculation surrounding James potentially denying an injury replacement a chance to play, it’s worth noting that he participated in a real NBA game just the night before the All-Star Game. By that time, injury replacements had already been named, preventing any last-minute additions to the rosters. James’ absence serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between personal well-being and professional obligations in the world of competitive sports.
### All-Star Game Rosters: A New Lineup
The 2025 NBA All-Star Game features two distinct rosters for Game 1 and Game 2, drafted by NBA legends and analysts Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith. Game 1 will see Kenny’s Young Stars facing off against Chuck’s Global Stars, while Game 2 pits Shaq’s OGs against Candace’s Rising Stars.
Shaq’s OGs roster boasts star players such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis, and Kevin Durant, while Candace’s Rising Stars showcase young talent like Stephon Castle, Keyonte George, and Trayce Jackson-Davis. Each team brings a unique blend of experience and skill, promising an exciting matchup for fans watching the All-Star festivities.
### Game Schedule and Format: A New Approach
The 2025 NBA All-Star Game introduces a revamped format, featuring a mini-tournament with four teams and three games composed of the league’s top players. Each game will be decided by the first team to reach 40 points, adding a new level of competition and excitement to the traditional All-Star Game. The tournament also includes a prize money pool of $1.8 million, with players on the championship team earning $125,000 each.
The All-Star tournament will culminate in a championship game between the winners of Game 1 and Game 2, offering fans a thrilling conclusion to the weekend’s festivities. With NBA legends Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith serving as honorary general managers for their respective teams, the All-Star Game promises to be a showcase of talent, skill, and competitive spirit.
As the NBA continues to innovate and evolve its All-Star Game experience, fans can expect a weekend filled with memorable moments, fierce competition, and star-studded performances. Stay tuned for more updates and coverage of the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, as the league’s top players take center stage in San Francisco’s Chase Center.
