LOS ANGELES — With the 75th NBA All-Star Game just around the corner, many fans have reacted to Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker’s selection — particularly the team he has been assigned to.
Feb 14, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Devin Booker speaks during interviews at media day at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images
Booker was chosen for his fifth All-Star appearance, now in his 11th season in the league. While the honor adds another milestone to his already impressive resume, it has also sparked conversation online about his placement on Team Stars, given his veteran status.
Team Stars is typically composed of younger players and “rising talent” expected to shape the future of the NBA. For fans, seeing a player with more than a decade of experience included alongside emerging stars highlights the unique position Booker occupies in the league.
Feb 15, 2026; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Team USA Stars guard Devin Booker (1) of the Phoenix Suns on the red carpet before the 75th NBA All Star Game at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Throughout his career, Booker has built a reputation as a dynamic player in the NBA, consistently combining elite scoring with a team-first approach to lead the Suns. This season, he is averaging 25.2 points, 6.3 assists, and shooting 45.5% from the field.
Although these statistics underscore his elite level of play, they were not enough to earn him a starter spot. Being placed on Team Stars has reignited discussion about how All-Star teams are selected and what qualifies a player as “rising talent” versus a seasoned veteran.
The debate raises broader questions: where should players like Booker fit if they are too experienced to be considered rising stars, yet not selected as starters among the league’s elite?
Is the current All-Star format the best way to recognize both young and established talent, or should the league reconsider its approach?
Jan 11, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) reacts against the Washington Wizards in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
As the All-Star Game tips off on Sunday, fan reaction continues the debate over how selections are made and whether the process should be adjusted to better showcase the league’s different types of stars.