The four-time champ explains why he had to put team goals over another All-Star moment
LeBron Sits Out First All-Star Game Ever: What That Means for the NBA’s Biggest Weekend(AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)LAPRESSE
LeBron James has done a lot of things no NBA player has ever done. But on Sunday night, he did something entirely new-he sat out an All-Star Game.
For 20 straight seasons, the Lakers superstar has been a fixture at the league’s biggest midseason event, setting a record for consecutive All-Star appearances. But that streak came to an end in San Francisco, as James announced just hours before tipoff that he wouldn’t be suiting up due to ongoing ankle and foot discomfort.
A big disappointment! LeBron James hates missing the NBA All-Star Game because of an injury
“I was hoping it would feel a lot better this morning, but it’s not where I want it to be,” James told reporters in a press conference before the All-Star mini-tournament.
This wasn’t an easy decision. James, now 40 years old, has spent much of the season managing his body while trying to keep the Lakers competitive in a stacked Western Conference. With just 30 games left in the season and the Lakers hovering around the playoff picture, he made it clear his priority was staying healthy for the stretch run.
“I have to look out for myself when it comes to this injury that I’ve been dealing with for years,”James said.
He played in the Lakers’ final game before the All-Star break-a 131-119 loss to the Utah Jazz-but quickly shifted his focus to recovery. Rather than taking the typical All-Star break vacation, he’s heading back to Los Angeles for rehab, hoping to be ready for the Lakers’ matchup against Charlotte on Wednesday.