Curry Takes All-Star Starter Snub in Stride, Commends Young Contemporaries

In a rare turn of events, Stephen Curry finds himself not starting in an All-Star Game for the first time in a decade. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic were chosen as the Western Conference starting guards, leaving Curry out of the starting lineup for the first time since the Obama administration.

Ever the class act, Curry responded to the snub with grace and admiration for his younger counterparts. He praised both Gilgeous-Alexander and Doncic for their exceptional performances this season, acknowledging their well-deserved spots as starters.

Speaking to reporters, Curry expressed his perspective on the situation: “You got two guys that are playing amazing this year, Luka and Shai. So, I’ve been around, doing this for a very long time and the fact that it’s a talking point I’m not [an All-Star starter] after nine healthy years…Those two guys are playing amazing. They deserve it.”

Despite being on pace to start in the All-Star Game, Curry ultimately finished third and fourth in the player and media vote, respectively. He graciously acknowledged the challenge of being recognized every year and emphasized the importance of not taking such honors for granted.

“Hopefully I’m there in Indiana in whatever capacity. But yeah, to still be doing it at this stage, it’s always a challenge. You don’t ever take for granted the fact that how hard it is to be recognized in that way every year.”

Curry, a fixture in the All-Star starting lineup from 2014 to 2023 (except in 2020 due to injury), will now adjust to a different role in this year’s game. He expressed hope to be present in Indiana “in whatever capacity,” showcasing his team-first mentality.

While Curry fell short in the fan votes, finishing third behind Anthony Edwards, he remains a strong candidate for a reserve spot. The All-Star reserves, selected by NBA coaches, will be revealed on February 1. Curry and Edwards are considered likely choices to represent the Western Conference as reserve guards in the All-Star Game.