Victor Wembanyama Named All-Star Starter for First Time, Joins Elite Spurs Company
Victor Wembanyama is officially stepping into the NBA spotlight in a major way - as a starter in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game.
The 22-year-old Spurs phenom was announced Monday as one of the five Western Conference starters, marking his first time earning a starting nod after appearing as a reserve in last year’s All-Star Game. Now in his third NBA season, Wembanyama’s rise from hyped prospect to certified star has been as fast as it’s been impressive - and this latest honor is another milestone in his rapid ascent.
Wembanyama will line up alongside some of the league’s biggest names: Stephen Curry, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and reigning Finals MVP Nikola Jokic. That’s elite company, and Wemby’s presence in that group says a lot about how far he’s come - and how much respect he’s earned from fans, players, and media alike.
Through 28 games this season, Wembanyama is putting up 24.5 points, 10.9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2.6 blocks per game. Those are numbers that not only reflect his impact on both ends of the court, but also his growing leadership role on a Spurs team that’s turned a corner. San Antonio enters Monday’s matchup against the Utah Jazz with a 29-13 record, good for second place in the Western Conference - a dramatic shift from where this franchise was just a season ago.
And make no mistake: Wembanyama is at the heart of it all. His ability to stretch the floor, protect the rim, and create mismatches on offense has made him a nightmare for opposing teams.
But it’s not just the stats - it’s the presence. He’s playing with the confidence and control of a seasoned veteran, and now he’s being recognized as one of the game’s best.
With this selection, Wembanyama becomes just the sixth player in Spurs history to be named an All-Star starter, joining an iconic list that includes George Gervin, Alvin Robertson, David Robinson, Tim Duncan, and Kawhi Leonard. That’s not just Spurs royalty - that’s NBA royalty. And Wemby, still just 22, is already earning his place among them.
This year’s All-Star Game, the 75th in league history, is set for Sunday, February 15 at the brand-new Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. It’ll also mark the debut of a new format: U.S. players versus international players - a fitting twist for a global game. And with Wembanyama representing the international side, fans will get a chance to see him go head-to-head with the best of the American-born stars on the biggest stage outside the playoffs.
The All-Star starters were selected through a weighted vote that combined input from fans (50%), players (25%), and media members (25%). Wembanyama’s inclusion shows he’s not just a fan favorite - he’s earned respect across the board.
From a rookie sensation to an All-Star starter in just three seasons, Wembanyama’s rise has been nothing short of electric. And if this season is any indication, it’s only the beginning.