Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija has been named to the 2026 NBA All-Star team for the first time in his career, writing history in the process. The 25-year-old professional was named a reserve for the Western Conference in the NBA All-Star Game scheduled for February 15 in Inglewood, California—a first for any Israeli basketball player.
A historic achievement
Avdija was selected by NBA head coaches as one of the seven reserves in the West. He is thus the first Israeli player ever to achieve this honor and is entering a special season for both his team and the league. He posted impressive numbers this season and earned the praise of coaches and fans alike.
In the fan voting, Avdija finished seventh in the West with over 2.2 million votes—ahead of several established NBA stars—securing his spot on the All-Star roster. This strong support underscores his rising popularity and significance in the league.
Avdija grew up on Kibbutz Beit Zera in northern Israel and began his professional career in Israel before entering the NBA Draft. He was initially selected by the Washington Wizards but made his leap to superstardom with the Portland Trail Blazers. His performances this season are considered a breakthrough, and his All-Star nomination marks a high point in his career.
“It’s emotional for me for sure.” ❤️
Deni reflects on finding out he’s been named an All-Star for the first time in his career. pic.twitter.com/uo6NxGiqya
— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) February 2, 2026
Avdija’s star began to shine last year in his first season with Portland, capturing the hearts of fans in Israel and the United States. This season, however, he took another major step forward, averaging 25.8 points, 6.8 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game.
His scoring and assist averages are by far the best of his career and rank 13th and 12th in the NBA, respectively. He is considered a favorite for the league’s “Most Improved Player” award.
Avdija’s rise has occurred against the backdrop of the war in the Gaza Strip and a global increase in antisemitism, which he says personally affects him.
“I’m an athlete. I don’t really deal with politics because that’s not my job,” Avdija told The Athletic. “Of course I stand up for my country because that’s where I come from. It’s frustrating to see all the hate. When I have a good game or get All-Star votes, all the comments are geared toward connecting me to politics. Why can’t I just be a good basketball player? Why does it matter whether I’m from Israel or from another country in the world, or what race I belong to? Just respect me as a basketball player.”
Significance for Israeli basketball
Avdija’s nomination has generated enormous attention in Israel and is regarded as a historic event for the country’s basketball scene. Fans and commentators see it as proof of his outstanding talent and his status as one of the best Israeli athletes in the world. This recognition on basketball’s biggest stage also strengthens Israel’s presence in the global sports world and inspires young players in the country.
Avdija’s career has developed dramatically in recent years, and his All-Star selection is a visible sign of how firmly he has established himself in the NBA. In doing so, he opens a new chapter in the history of Israeli basketball and potentially paves the way for future talents from the country.
Want more news from Israel?
Click Here to sign up for our FREE daily email updates
