Deni Avdija Becomes First Israeli NBA All Star

On a night filled with global stars, one moment stood out for millions of Israelis watching around the world. Deni Avdija stepped onto the court as a starter in the NBA All-Star Game becoming the first Israeli ever to earn the honor.

“It’s a dream come true,” Avdija said before tipoff, proudly holding his Team World jersey adorned with the Israeli flag and his number 8.

At just 25 years old and standing 6-foot-8, Avdija is in the midst of what the NBA has called his breakout season. Now with the Portland Trail Blazers, he is averaging an impressive 25.5 points per game. The All-Star selection marks the pinnacle of a steady climb that began when he entered the league in 2020 with the Washington Wizards before moving to Portland last season.

In Sunday’s tournament-style format where each game lasts just 12 minutes Avdija scored 5 points in his first appearance. Team World later fell in Game III, eliminating them from the competition. Though he did not score in that second outing, his presence alone was historic.

When introduced before the game, Avdija was announced as representing Israel a point of pride for the young star who holds dual Israeli and Serbian citizenship but has always chosen to identify publicly and professionally with the Jewish state. As a teenager, despite being eligible to represent Serbia, he committed to Israel’s national team.

His achievement did not go unnoticed among basketball’s legends. Los Angeles Lakers icon and 22-time All-Star LeBron James praised Avdija before the game. “I believe he is an All-Star. He’s playing exceptional basketball,” James said.

James also expressed interest in visiting Israel one day. “Hopefully, someday I can make it over there. I’ve never been… but I’ve heard nothing but great things.”

Back home, the pride was palpable. Soldiers from the IDF’s 888th Multi-Dimensional “Ghost” Unit sent Avdija a video message wishing him luck. “We want to tell you that you chose the right number,” they said, referencing his jersey number 8. “And we wish you lots of good luck today in the All-Star!”

From Tel Aviv playgrounds to the brightest stage in global sports, Avdija’s journey represents more than personal success. It reflects the growing presence of Israeli talent on the world stage in sports, culture, technology, and beyond.

For young Israelis dreaming big, Sunday night was proof that no stage is out of reach.

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