The starting lineups for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game were announced by the NBA on Monday. LeBron James is one prominent name that is absent, though. Amidst yet another outstanding season for the Bucks, two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo leads the way as the conference’s top vote-getter in the East. The starting five is completed by Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, Cade Cunningham, and Jalen Brunson.
Nikola Jokić of the Nuggets and Luka Dončić of the Lakers lead the fan voting in the West, earning them starting positions. Young French sensation Victor Wembanyama, the legendary Steph Curry, and current Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will join them.
James has consistently been a major player in All-Star voting as the NBA’s top star of the twenty-first century. In reality, he was regarded as a lock to be named an All-Star starter every year for the great majority of his career. His case was always strong because of his excellent play and steady availability. As a result, James had an unparalleled run of 21 straight All-Star starter nominations.
Now that streak is over. LeBron James was not selected as a starter in the NBA All-Star game for the first time since 2004.
