Deni Avdija Creates History with First NBA All-Star Selection for Israel
In a landmark moment for international basketball, Deni Avdija of the Portland Trail Blazers has been named to the NBA All-Star Game for the first time in his career. This historic selection makes him the first Israeli player ever to receive this prestigious honor, marking a significant milestone not just for Avdija personally but for the entire nation of Israel.
A Journey of Perseverance and Breakout Performance
The announcement came on Sunday night as the NBA revealed its 2026 All-Star reserves, with Avdija's name prominently featured among the first-time selections. This recognition follows a breakout season where the forward has demonstrated remarkable consistency and embraced expanded responsibilities within the Trail Blazers' lineup.
Despite narrowly missing out on the fan-voted starting lineup for the Western Conference, Avdija's impact was undeniable, leading league coaches to select him as a reserve. His emotional reaction in the Portland locker room highlighted the significance of this achievement.
Avdija's Emotional Reaction to the Milestone
In a heartfelt locker room interview, Avdija did not conceal what this moment meant to him. "I'm proud, you know. I just remembered all the journey that I've come along with, you know, wasn't in the easiest situation throughout my career," the Trail Blazers forward shared.
He added, "You know, I start playing basketball without a dream and just see pursuit it and just see wherever it takes me and it's hard to believe that you just accomplish thing after thing after thing, it's just emotional for me for sure."
Statistical Dominance and Consistent Excellence
Avdija's All-Star selection is backed by impressive statistics in his sixth NBA season and second with Portland:
- Average of 25.5 points per game
- 7.2 rebounds per contest
- 6.7 assists each game
- Field goal percentage of 46.7%
The forward ranks among league leaders in both total points and assists, and has maintained an extraordinary streak of scoring in double figures in every single game this season.
Path to Stardom and International Representation
Avdija's journey to this historic moment began when he was selected ninth overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards. After spending four seasons in Washington, a trade to Portland before the 2024-25 season provided him with the opportunity for a larger role that he has fully capitalized on.
On February 15, Avdija will represent the World Team at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles as part of the NBA's new U.S. versus World format. This innovative structure features three teams competing in a round-robin tournament before a championship game.
He will share the court with global basketball superstars including:
- Nikola Jokic
- Luka Doncic
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
A National Milestone for Israeli Basketball
Beyond personal achievement, Avdija's selection represents a watershed moment for Israeli basketball. No player from Israel had previously reached the NBA All-Star Game, making this accomplishment a source of national pride and inspiration for aspiring basketball players across the country.
As Avdija prepares to step onto the All-Star stage, he carries with him not only the hopes of Trail Blazers fans but also the pride of an entire nation celebrating this historic breakthrough in international basketball recognition.
