INGLEWOOD, CA – – The NBA All-Star Game roster has undergone a significant shift as San Antonio Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox has been named to replace Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is sidelined with a right calf strain. The announcement, made by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, adds a dynamic scoring threat to the USA Stripes team and reshapes the competitive landscape heading into the game at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.
Antetokounmpo, a 10-time All-Star, was voted a starter for Team World but will be unable to participate due to the injury sustained on . While he won’t be on the court, the Bucks forward intends to remain involved in the All-Star festivities, including coaching in the All-Star Celebrity Game alongside his brothers, Thanasis and Alex and Los Angeles Dodgers star Mookie Betts. He will also support his Team World teammates on Sunday.
Fox’s inclusion marks his second All-Star selection, his first since the season. The ninth-year guard is averaging 19.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.27 steals in 45 games this season, playing a pivotal role in the Spurs’ success. San Antonio currently holds a 38-16 record, placing them second in the Western Conference.
The ripple effect of Antetokounmpo’s absence and Fox’s addition extends to the Miami Heat, as guard Norman Powell will transition from USA Stripes to Team World. Powell, who has Jamaican ties, brings a versatile skillset and international flavor to a team that was originally slated to feature Antetokounmpo as a key component. This move allows Team World to maintain a strong presence and competitive balance.
The 75th NBA All-Star Game will feature a new format this year, moving away from the traditional East vs. West matchup. Instead, the game will consist of a round-robin mini-tournament with four 12-minute games between two teams of U.S. Players (USA Stars and USA Stripes) and one team of international players (World). This format aims to increase the intensity and competitiveness of the All-Star Game, addressing recent criticisms regarding a perceived lack of effort.
Fox’s selection is a testament to his consistent performance and growing impact in the league. He was also recognized for his contributions in the Emirates NBA Cup 2025, earning a spot on the All-Tournament Team after averaging 22.3 points, 7.7 assists, and 2.00 steals during the Spurs’ run to the Championship Game. His ability to score, distribute the ball, and disrupt opposing offenses makes him a valuable asset to any team, including USA Stripes.
The Spurs are well-represented in this year’s All-Star Game, with both Fox and teammate Victor Wembanyama earning selections. Wembanyama will play for Team World, creating a unique dynamic as the two Spurs stars will face off against each other on the All-Star stage. Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson will lead the USA Stripes team, further solidifying the organization’s presence in the league’s premier mid-season event.
Antetokounmpo’s injury adds another layer of complexity to the Bucks’ season. Already facing challenges in the Eastern Conference standings with a 22-30 record, Milwaukee is in danger of missing the playoffs for the first time in nine seasons. The two-time MVP’s absence not only impacts the All-Star Game but also raises concerns about the team’s ability to compete in the second half of the season. Despite the setback, Antetokounmpo remains a dominant force when healthy, averaging 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.6 assists while shooting a career-high 64.5% from the field.
The All-Star Game, airing on NBC and Peacock, promises to be a showcase of the league’s brightest stars and a celebration of basketball. With the new format and the addition of players like De’Aaron Fox, the event aims to recapture the excitement and competitiveness that have defined the NBA All-Star Game for decades. Fans can find complete team rosters on the NBA’s official website.
