NBA All-Star Weekend 2024: Starters and Reserves Unveiled

Last week, the NBA disclosed the eagerly awaited starters for the 2024 NBA All-Star Game, chosen through a collaborative vote from fans, players, and media. On Thursday night, the annual showcase’s rosters were completed with the announcement of the reserves, selected by the league’s head coaches. The coaches strategically picked two guards, three frontcourt players, and two additional players, disregarding their positions.

In a notable shift, the league has abandoned the captain’s picks format and returned to the classic Eastern Conference vs. Western Conference format. Below are the standout reserves from each conference.

Eastern Conference Reserves:
The Eastern Conference reserves showcase a group of first-time All-Stars, headlined by New York Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson, a crucial contributor to the team’s No. 3 seed. Unfortunately, teammate Julius Randle, who suffered a dislocated shoulder last month, is unlikely to participate. Other first-time All-Stars include Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey, a top candidate for Most Improved Player, and Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero, the reigning Rookie of the Year.

As a reminder, the East starters are Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers), Damian Lillard (Bucks), Jayson Tatum (Celtics), Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks), and Joel Embiid (76ers), who may miss the game due to a knee injury.

Western Conference Reserves:
In contrast, the Western Conference reserves form a veteran-heavy group, featuring future Hall of Famers such as Steph Curry, Anthony Davis, and Kawhi Leonard, all of whom were part of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team at the 2022 All-Star Game. Noteworthy additions are Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns, instrumental in leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to the top spot in the West.

As a reminder, the West starters are Luka Doncic (Mavericks), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder), LeBron James (Lakers), Kevin Durant (Suns), and Nikola Jokic (Nuggets).

All-Star Weekend is scheduled for Feb. 16-18 in Indianapolis, marking the city’s return as the host since 1985. The action-packed weekend will commence with the Rising Stars Challenge on Friday, followed by the thrilling All-Star Saturday Night. The grand finale, the All-Star Game, will close the festivities on Sunday.

In a departure from recent years, the league is revamping the format by scrapping the Elam Ending. Instead, the All-Star Game will revert to the traditional structure of four 12-minute quarters.