Deni Avdija, forward for the Portland Trail Blazers, has made history by becoming the first Israeli ever chosen to participate in the NBA All-Star Game. The 25-year-old secured a reserve spot for the Western Conference team for the game set on February 15 in Inglewood, California, highlighting his rise in the league.
Originally from Beit Zera, a kibbutz beside the Sea of Galilee, Avdija has emerged as one of the NBA’s most versatile players. Known by his nickname “Turbo,” he is currently posting career-best averages of 25.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game over 44 contests this season.
Joining an Exclusive Group of Top Performers
Avdija now stands in rare company as one of only three NBA players this season averaging at least 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists per game, alongside MVP frontrunners Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic. His stat line boasts three triple-doubles and 35 games scoring 20 points or more, underscoring his all-around impact.
“Proud of him. I know he cares about this team. When you see a person like that succeeding, it’s truly special.” ? Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers Veteran
Significance of Avdija’s All-Star Selection
This achievement represents an important milestone for international basketball and the Trail Blazers franchise. Avdija is the 17th player in Portland history to earn All-Star honors, and the first since Damian Lillard made the team in 2023. Despite missing six of the last 10 games due to a lingering back injury, his influence on Portland’s rebuilding process has been substantial.
New Format Brings World and U.S. Teams Together
The upcoming All-Star Game adopts a novel format featuring three teams composed of at least eight players each, competing in 12-minute round-robin games. The two teams with the best records will then face off in the final championship match. Avdija will join fellow international stars such as Doncic, Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Victor Wembanyama on the World team, emphasizing the game’s global growth.
Currently in his second season with Portland after four years with Washington, Avdija has adapted well to his role. He shoots an efficient 46.7% from the field, helping stabilize a Blazers squad contending with injuries, as they hold a 23-27 record in the tough Western Conference.
For Israel’s basketball community and fans worldwide, Avdija’s selection is more than a personal triumph. It highlights how basketball’s international reach is expanding and demonstrates the increasing prominence of emerging talent from regions like the Sea of Galilee and beyond.
