Blazers’ Deni Avdija makes history, embraces spotlight after first All-Star nod

Deni Avdija didn’t light up the box score in his first All-Star Game.

That wasn’t really the point.

Avdija finished with five points, four assists and one rebound in 15 minutes, but the selection itself mattered. Both for how far he’s come and who he represents.

As Joe Freeman of The Oregonian noted, Avdija became the first Israeli-born player to make an NBA All-Star team, a moment he didn’t take lightly.

“I feel like this is a dream come true for every kid that actually wants to play basketball,” Avdija said. “Having a whole country behind me, it’s just a blessing to represent it on the biggest stage in the world.”

The recognition also confirmed something league observers have already figured out. Avdija isn’t just having a nice year, he’s having a real one.

After four solid but uneven seasons with the Wizards, Avdija’s career took off following his trade to the Trail Blazers in the summer of 2024. He’s now in the middle of the best season of his career, averaging 25.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 6.6 assists through 46 games. That production puts him in rare company leaguewide.

Just as important, Avdija sounds invested.

“I definitely want to amplify a good culture into the organization,” he said. “I hope I’m going to stay in Portland. I love the city, the fans.”