Image Source: X
[Saba Sports News] For the first time in over 20 years, LeBron James will not be suiting up for the NBA All-Star Game.
Just over 90 minutes before tip-off on Sunday, the Los Angeles Lakers star announced that he would be sitting out due to “ankle and foot discomfort.”
“You won’t see anything from me tonight,” James told reporters. “Unfortunately, I will not be in uniform. Still dealing with ankle and foot discomfort, so I will not be playing tonight. I hate that.”
James has played in 48 of the Lakers’ 52 games this season and logged 34 minutes in a loss to the Utah Jazz last Wednesday. However, he has been managing a lingering left foot issue, which the Lakers have officially listed as “soreness.” As a result, he will now watch the All-Star Game from the sidelines.
The last time James missed an All-Star appearance was in 2004, during his rookie season with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Since then, he has been selected 21 straight times and played in all 20 All-Star Games he was eligible for.
His absence comes just as the NBA debuts a new All-Star Game format, adding a fresh twist to the event. While many were eager to see James in action under the revamped rules, he will instead be watching from the bench in street clothes.