Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was named as a reserve in the 2026 All-Star Game. It was his 22nd consecutive appearance at the midseason event, the most in NBA history. He was a part of Team Stripes alongside Jaylen Brown, Jalen Brunson, Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant, Donovan Mitchell, De’Aaron Fox, Stephen Curry and Brandon Ingram in the new USA vs. World format.
The NBA has undergone several format changes, going from East vs. West, to a playground style draft, to a three-team round robin. But through all the changes, James has been one of the lone constants. It shows just how era-defining a player LeBron truly is, and he does not take that for granted.
On the latest episode of “Mind the Game” with Steve Nash, the Lakers star discussed what being named an All-Star means to him and why — even despite wanting the week off at age 41 — he finds it important to show up:
“Humbling, and it’s a blessing. Obviously, was never a goal of mine to be a 22-time All-Star. I definitely wanted to be in the All-Star Game growing up, I just watch the guys play and watch MJ and Penny and Grant Hill, so many greats. AI, all those guys, Kobe, and it looked like so much fun. And that was the biggest stage, you know. Now, I’m that guy. Seeing new All-Stars, first-year All-Stars, coming in this year and for me to still be here. Half of me, maybe a little bit more that’s like I wish I could have that full week. But then there’s also the nostalgic side too, and the humbleness and the childhood that comes out of me like wow, you’re an All-Star again. You remember those times when you were watching as a teenager or a kid and just seeing the greats and the lights and wanting to be a part of that moment.”
One of the reasons for all the format changes in the All-Star Game is that viewership has faded as players have begun to take the game less seriously. It became clear over time that there was no incentive for players to try their hardest, leading to relatively unwatchable games.
But LeBron, here, details the reason why it’s important to try and represent the league. It’s so that young players around the world can see all the best athletes having fun and playing hard on the same court, and set a goal to one day be a part of that.
This may or may not have been James’ final All-Star appearance. If it was, he went out doing what he set out to do as a young kid. If not, he’ll have another chance to do so next season.
LeBron James would be welcomed back for 24th season
LeBron James is going to be an unrestricted free agent this summer, and there have been many conversations about what his future holds with the Lakers and in the NBA. Retirement, a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers and re-signing with the Lakers all appear to be real options.
The Lakers reportedly are happy to have LeBron back if he wants to return to the purple and gold for his 24th NBA season, leaving his future almost entirely in his hands.
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