Deni Avdija Makes History as First Israeli NBA All-Star
Deni Avdija of the Portland Trail Blazers has achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first Israeli player to be selected as an NBA All-Star. His inclusion marks one of six first-time All-Stars this year and received acknowledgment from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Avdija is currently one of three Israeli players in the NBA, alongside Ben Saraf and Danny Wolf, both from Brooklyn. Prior to Avdija, Omri Casspi held the distinction as the most recognized Israeli NBA player, having played for 10 years in the league.
Season of Remarkable Improvement
This season, Avdija has demonstrated significant improvement across the board, achieving career-high averages of 25.5 points, 6.7 assists, and 9.5 free throws per game. Following his All-Star selection, Avdija reflected on his journey, conveying pride and emotion regarding his accomplishments.
Criticism and Connection to the IDF
Online criticism targeting Avdija has emerged due to a photo from April 2020, which depicts him in an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) uniform. This photo was taken during his mandatory army service. Avdija had deferred service at age 18 but enlisted during the COVID-19 pandemic, serving in a non-combat role as an "Exceptional Athlete."
His connection to the IDF has led to scrutiny from some basketball fans, particularly in the context of the ongoing Israel-Gaza war. In September 2025, the UN Human Rights Council concluded Israel had committed genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, a claim Israel denies. Examples of online abuse targeting Avdija have included accusations of being a "baby killer IDF terrorist."
Avdija Addresses the Controversy
Avdija addressed this criticism in an interview with The Athletic, stating that as an athlete, he does not engage in politics.
He affirmed his support for his country, expressing frustration over people connecting his performance to political matters.
He has also previously shown support for Israel, notably wearing shoes with the Hebrew phrase "Am Yisrael Chai" (The people of Israel live) in March 2022.
Statistical Merit and All-Star Debate
Avdija's All-Star selection is strongly supported by his impressive season statistics. He stands as one of only three players this season to average 25 points, seven rebounds, and six assists per game, placing him alongside elite talents like Luka DonÄiÄ and Nikola JokiÄ. Furthermore, he is the first Portland player since Clyde Drexler in 1991-92 to average 25 points, five assists, and five rebounds per game.
Some debate surrounded Avdija's inclusion, particularly when compared to players such as Kawhi Leonard, who averaged 27.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Similarly, LeBron James made his 22nd consecutive All-Star appearance despite slightly lower season averages of 21.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game.
Future Outlook
Avdija is considered a frontrunner for the NBA's Most Improved Player award this season. He is set to compete for Team World in the NBA's new USA vs. World All-Star game format, alongside other global stars including JokiÄ, DonÄiÄ, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.