Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković has expressed that he always feels a deep sense of pride in representing Serbia. However, at the upcoming NBA All-Star Game, his role will expand to symbolize a broader global representation. The NBA announced on Tuesday that Rajaković will serve as the coach for the international team at the All-Star Game, scheduled for February 15 in Inglewood, California. This appointment adds a significant global dimension to the new U.S. versus The World format, enhancing its international appeal.
A Historic Appointment for Rajaković
Rajaković, who is Serbian and coaches the only NBA team based outside the United States, will be making his debut as an All-Star head coach. In a statement to reporters in Toronto, he shared his excitement about this honor. "We had conversations with the NBA, and they were discussing the best way to have a coach for the World team for All-Star, for a slightly different format," Rajaković said. "And obviously, it is an amazing honor to represent Serbia, to represent Canada, and to represent the whole world at the All-Star Game. I am really excited to get there together with the guys and be part of this great spectacle."
Leading a Star-Studded International Roster
Rajaković will helm a team featuring some of the NBA's top international talents. The roster includes Serbia's Nikola Jokić, Slovenia's Luka Dončić, Cameroon's Pascal Siakam, as well as Canadians Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jamal Murray. Reflecting on this opportunity, Rajaković noted, "All of those guys are obviously the best of the best, and it's going to be a lot of fun to see all of those international players on the same team. There will be three or four guys who speak my language, so it's going to be pretty fun. Nikola Jokić is celebrating his birthday around that time as well, so we'll have a good time."
Rajaković's Impact on the Raptors This Season
Under Rajaković's leadership, the Toronto Raptors have delivered one of the finest performances in the league this season. With a current record of 30-21, the team is on track to achieve its best record since the 2019-20 campaign, when they went 53-19 as defending NBA champions in a coronavirus-shortened season. The Raptors have already matched last season's win total and are poised to secure their first playoff berth since 2022, showcasing Rajaković's effective coaching strategies.
A Rich Background in International Basketball
Rajaković brings a wealth of international experience to this role. His coaching journey began in his homeland at the age of 16, followed by stints in Spain and a role as a European consultant for the San Antonio Spurs for nearly a decade before moving to the U.S. in 2012. He also contributed to Serbia's coaching staff at the 2019 Basketball World Cup. Reflecting on his background, Rajaković said, "Growing up in Europe and coaching there for 17 years before coming to the NBA really shaped me as a coach in fundamental aspects. Now, leading the Toronto Raptors and understanding that I represent a team that embodies an entire country in Canada, I believe it's a perfect fit for both me and the organization."
All-Star Weekend Coaching Lineup and Format
At the All-Star Weekend, Rajaković will join J.B. Bickerstaff of the Detroit Pistons and Mitch Johnson of the San Antonio Spurs as coaches for the mini-tournament. This marks the first time the NBA has implemented the U.S. versus The World concept. Bickerstaff earned his spot due to the Pistons having the best record in the Eastern Conference, while Johnson was selected because the Spurs were the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference at the cutoff date. Typically, the coach with the best record would be chosen, but Oklahoma City's Mark Daigneault was ineligible this year after coaching at last season's All-Star Game.
Raptors' Presence at All-Star Events
Rajaković will be one of at least four individuals from the Raptors organization participating in All-Star Weekend. Scottie Barnes is set to compete in the All-Star Game, while Collin Murray-Boyles and Alijah Martin will take part in the Rising Stars event. This widespread involvement highlights the Raptors' strong presence in this year's festivities. Notably, Rajaković has prior All-Star experience, having served as an assistant coach on Scott Brooks' Oklahoma City staff during the 2014 All-Star weekend.
The NBA is expected to announce the full roster of players for each team in the All-Star tournament on Tuesday night, adding to the anticipation surrounding this innovative format. Rajaković's appointment not only celebrates his personal achievements but also underscores the growing global influence of basketball, making this All-Star Game a landmark event for fans worldwide.
