UPDATE: Jamal Murray has officially earned his first NBA All-Star selection in his ninth season, confirmed just moments ago. The Denver Nuggets star will join teammate Nikola Jokic at the All-Star Game at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California next weekend, marking a significant milestone for both players and the franchise.
This marks the first time since 2010 that two Nuggets teammates have been selected for the All-Star Game, a notable achievement for the team. “It feels really good,” said Jokic, who was named a starter last week. “Jamal has been playing at a really high level the last two years. It’s good for him to be there because he’s supposed to be there.”
Murray, who was taking a pregame nap when he received the news from friends via video call, expressed his competitive spirit, stating, “I want to be known as one of those guys who’s going to play hard every time he steps on the court.” He humorously added that his first shot in the All-Star Game would be “half-court, full-court” but emphasized his serious approach to the event.
The recognition comes after a standout season for the 28-year-old, who is averaging a career-high 25.8 points, along with 49.2% shooting from the field and 44.7% from beyond the arc. He has played a crucial role in leading the Nuggets through a challenging season marked by injuries to key players, including Jokic. Coach David Adelman highlighted Murray’s significant contributions, recalling his multiple 50-point games and pivotal performances in the playoffs.
This All-Star selection is particularly special for Canada, as Murray will join fellow Canadian All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the court, making it the first time two Canadians compete in the NBA All-Star Game. Gilgeous-Alexander expressed pride in the achievement for Canadian basketball, stating, “It was never in a million years.”
Murray’s growth this season has been remarkable, with 13 games scoring over 30 points and 11 games with double-digit assists, all while leading the Nuggets to remain competitive in the Western Conference. Adelman noted Murray’s impressive physical and mental preparation, stating, “Your body is at its best when it’s not just the physical part, it’s your mind.”
As excitement builds for the NBA All-Star Game scheduled for next weekend, fans are eager to see how Murray will showcase his talent on this prestigious platform. “Everything about him this year has been really fun to watch,” Adelman added, highlighting the long-awaited recognition of Murray’s abilities.
This selection not only celebrates Murray’s individual achievements but also underscores the resilience and strength of the Nuggets as they navigate through a tough season. With Murray and Jokic both representing Denver, the franchise is looking to solidify its place in NBA history during this All-Star weekend.
