Ykay005LeBron James did not suit up for the 2025 All-Star Game on Sunday due to a lingering ankle injury. NBA Communications confirmed the decision on X, which sparked backlash among fans. “LeBron James will not play in the NBA All-Star Game tonight because of foot/ankle discomfort,” the post from NBA Communications stated. As mentioned, NBA supporters and viewers complained about James’ decision to sit out the annual showdown between the league’s biggest names and best players, with many pointing out that he could have announced it earlier so the league could have found a replacement.
“So no one can replace him cuz he waits till last minute to announce it smh,” a commenter wrote. Another critic wrote, “Give the fans their money back immediately for LeXcuse James. Everyone else gets an injury replacement and this guy knew all along he wasn’t playing.” “This is pathetic, could’ve had a replacement and given Powell or Sabonis a chance to be a all star,” a follower added.
However, there’s apparently a reason why James announced his decision late. Speaking to reporters before the All-Star Game, the Los Angeles Lakers star admitted that he was “hoping it would feel a lot better this morning.” Unfortunately, that’s not the case. “It’s not where I want it to be,” James explained.
LeBron says he was hoping he would feel good enough to play this morning, and that it was more important for him to prepare for the stretch run with the Lakers trying to make the playoffs than to push it and play today.
While LeBron James opted not to play, Team Shaq still had a pretty strong team. Shaquille O’Neal’s squad featured the likes of Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, Damian Lillard, James Harden, Jaylen Brown and Kyrie Irving.
