Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas has expressed strong criticism regarding the selections for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, highlighting the omission of Joel Embiid. The NBA released the list of 24 participants—12 from both the Eastern and Western Conferences—on February 2, 2026. While stars such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Giannis Antetokounmpo made the roster, Embiid’s absence raised eyebrows.
Currently playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, Embiid boasts impressive statistics this season, averaging 26.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in just 31 minutes per game. Despite these numbers, he has only participated in 28 games this season, a factor contributing to his exclusion from the All-Star lineup.
Arenas Questions the Selections
Arenas took to social media to voice his discontent, stating, “Naw, this ain’t it… Can someone tap me when the REAL ALL-STAR list is out?” He further emphasized his point by declaring that a “one-legged Embiid is playing better than HALF this list,” suggesting he would prefer to watch Embiid play, even at less than full strength, over some of the selected players.
“And they wonder why they’re having a problem with the All-Star game,” Arenas explained. “The All-Star game is the best 24 players in the world. Some of these guys aren’t even the best player on their team.”
Arenas articulated a broader concern regarding the integrity of the All-Star Game, arguing that selections of players who do not stand out as the best on their respective teams undermine the event’s prestige. He pointed out that some players, despite their inclusion, have underwhelming team performance records, adding fuel to the debate surrounding player selection criteria.
The Ongoing Debate on All-Star Selections
The discussion around the All-Star selections is not new and has included various proposals aimed at enhancing the event’s appeal. Arenas believes that the current selection process contributes to a decline in the All-Star Game’s popularity. He stated, “Someone has 13 wins here. 13 wins is cool if you’re averaging 40, but if you’re having a regular year… everybody is gone, and you’re averaging 23.”
Arenas’ comments resonate with a larger audience that questions the criteria used to determine All-Star status. As fans and analysts continue to scrutinize the selections, the NBA will likely face ongoing pressure to address these concerns and ensure that the All-Star Game reflects the league’s top talent.
As the event approaches, the debate surrounding the All-Star selections is poised to capture attention, particularly as fans, players, and commentators weigh in on the merits of those chosen versus those left out. With the spotlight on the All-Star Game, it remains to be seen how the league will respond to the criticisms raised by Arenas and others.
