Chet Holmgren, a Rising Star in the NBA, Named to the 2026 All-Star Game
The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is set to be a spectacle, and one of its stars is none other than Chet Holmgren, a player who has been making waves in the league. This marks a significant achievement for Holmgren, as it's his first All-Star selection, and it places him among an elite group of Thunder players who have earned this honor since the 2009-10 season. With seven different players earning All-Star recognition during that span, Oklahoma City is now tied for the fourth most in the NBA.
In his third NBA season, Holmgren has been a force to be reckoned with. He's appeared in all 43 games as a starter, averaging a career-high 17.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, and an impressive 2.05 blocks in just 28.9 minutes per game. His defensive prowess is particularly notable, as he ranks third in the NBA for blocks, holding opponents to a mere 44.2% shooting on two-point attempts, the best in the league. Holmgren's impact has been instrumental in the Thunder's success, with the team boasting the best record in the league at 38-11.
What's even more impressive is Holmgren's ability to balance scoring and defense. He's one of just three players in the NBA who average at least 17.0 points and 8.0 rebounds while shooting a remarkable 55% from the field and 37% from three-point range. This elite group includes the likes of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokić.
Holmgren's defensive leadership was further recognized when he was named the Western Conference Defensive Player of the Month for December. His anchoring presence has helped the Thunder maintain the NBA's top defense, leading the league in defensive rating (105.7).
Since the team's relocation in the 2008-09 season, the Thunder have become one of only five NBA franchises with 20 or more total All-Star appearances. This achievement further solidifies Holmgren's place in the league's history.
The 2026 NBA All-Star Game, set for February 15, 2026, at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, promises to be a thrilling event. With a new tournament-style format, it will feature two teams of U.S. players and an international 'World Team' competing in a series of four 12-minute games. Chet Holmgren's selection is a testament to his talent and hard work, and it's an exciting prospect for fans to see him shine on the biggest stage.
