LeBron James pulls out of All-Star Game, sparking backlash
- Team C won the Rising Stars competition on February 16, 2025, securing a spot in the All-Star Game.
- LeBron James announced his withdrawal from the game shortly before it began due to an ankle and foot injury.
- James's late notification of his absence was met with criticism for denying another player a chance to participate.
On February 16, 2025, in San Francisco, Team C triumphed over Team G League in the Rising Stars competition, securing a place in the new-format All-Star Game. Team C's players included standout Stephon Castle, who scored 12 points and earned MVP honors, leading his team to a 25-14 victory. However, much of the attention turned to LeBron James, who announced he would not participate in the All-Star Game just 90 minutes before the start, citing a lingering ankle and foot injury. This decision marked the end of James's impressive streak of 20 consecutive All-Star game starts and drew significant criticism from fans and former players alike for depriving another athlete of the chance to play. James's injury issues have been well-documented throughout the season, contributing to his decision to focus on rehabilitation ahead of the remainder of the Lakers' schedule. As his lowest scoring average was registered in all his All-Star seasons, there were growing concerns about his long-term health and impact on the team’s playoff push. The reactions to James's late announcement highlighted the frustration among fans and analysts, particularly as it left a team short one player in a game designed to showcase the talent of the league. The NBA's new mini-tournament format for the All-Star Game included several teams drafted by analysts, aiming to bring renewed excitement and competition to the annual showcase, yet without James's participation, it was a bittersweet moment for many who expected him to shine. Even with the grievances voiced over James's decision, fans in the Bay Area celebrated a thrilling All-Star Weekend, marking a blend of nostalgia and new experiences as stars like Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant played their roles in the festivities. The atmosphere around the event showcased the league's evolution, with support from the community underscoring the event's importance. As the All-Star Game concluded, the NBA looked ahead to its plans for the future, including hosting the 2026 All-Star Game in Los Angeles, aiming to create a more engaging and competitive environment in subsequent years.