The NBA All-Star Game is set to tip off at midnight Israel time between Sunday and Monday, and for fans in Israel the spotlight is firmly on Deni Avdija.
The Portland Trail Blazers forward will make history as the first player from Israel to appear in the NBA All-Star Game, capping a breakout season that has propelled him into the league’s elite.
LeBron James praises Deni Avdija for 'exceptional season,' says he’d love to visit Israel
(Video: Ayala Orel)
On the eve of the game, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James — making his 22nd All-Star appearance — was asked about Avdija during a news conference and offered emphatic praise.
“Well, I’ve been quoted on Danny already,” James said. “They asked me what I thought about the season. I said I believe he was an All-Star — and I mean, he was an All-Star. He’s playing exceptional basketball. So that’s that.”
James added that he hopes his success resonates with fans in Israel.
“If I have fans over there — I’ve never been there — if I have fans over there, then I hope I inspire people over there not only to want to be great in sports, but to be better in general in life,” he said. “Hopefully someday I can make it over there. Like I said, I’ve never been over there, but I’ve heard nothing but great things.”
The endorsement from one of the greatest players in NBA history comes amid a career-best season for Avdija. The 25-year-old is averaging 25.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game for Portland, firmly establishing himself as one of the Western Conference’s top performers.
After narrowly missing a starting spot in fan voting — finishing seventh among Western Conference players — Avdija was selected by the conference’s coaches as one of seven reserves, sealing his place in Sunday night’s showcase.
Speaking during All-Star media day in Los Angeles, Avdija described the moment as the fulfillment of years of work.
“Dreams come true,” he said. “You work hard and sacrifice. Be good and be patient, and good things will happen.”
Seeing his All-Star jersey for the first time — adorned with the flag of Israel — was especially meaningful.
“I’m happy to represent the country on the biggest stage,” he said. “You walk into the room and see the jersey with your name and the flag — it’s very emotional, especially for a player who went through a long journey to get to this moment.”
The All-Star Game will follow the league’s new tournament-style format, with three teams competing in short games before a final. Avdija will play for the international team alongside stars such as Nikola Jokić and Luka Dončić.
Israeli fans have traveled to Los Angeles for the occasion, calling Avdija “a source of pride” and a trailblazer for the next generation.
Regardless of Sunday night’s result, Avdija’s presence alone marks a milestone — for his career and for basketball in Israel.