Norman Powell’s journey to his first NBA All-Star selection is the kind of story that resonates - not just because of the milestone itself, but because of the long, winding road he took to get there. At 32 years old and in his 11th season, Powell finally earned the nod, a testament to perseverance, growth, and the kind of grit that doesn’t always show up in a box score.
Powell’s All-Star breakthrough also places him in familiar company. He joins Pascal Siakam and Fred VanVleet - fellow former Raptors - as players who blossomed after their early days in Toronto.
Siakam, now a three-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection, has carved out a reputation as one of the league’s most versatile forwards. VanVleet, famously undrafted, turned himself into an All-Star and championship-caliber floor general.
And now Powell, long known for his energy and scoring punch off the bench, adds his name to that list of Raptors alumni who’ve elevated their games on the league’s biggest stages.
Kawhi Leonard, who played a pivotal role in Toronto’s 2019 championship run alongside all three, was asked about Powell’s achievement. His response was... well, let’s just say it was a little more complicated than a simple congratulations.
“You know, everybody comes into their own,” Leonard said. “But the talent wasn’t there, but the work ethic was, and that’s the reason why everybody thought they were better than they were.”
It’s a curious quote. On the surface, it might sound like a backhanded compliment - but if you’ve followed Leonard’s career, you know he’s not exactly known for flowery praise or media-polished soundbites.
What he likely meant to convey was that guys like Powell, Siakam, and VanVleet weren’t handed anything. They outworked the odds.
They weren’t hyped prospects or lottery picks. They earned their reputations through relentless effort and consistent play, night in and night out.
Leonard went on to emphasize that competitive edge: “They competed at a high level every night and I’m happy for him, especially for Norm, even trying to get here.”
Powell’s path took him from Toronto to Portland and eventually to the Clippers, reuniting him with Leonard. But it was his move to Miami that really opened the door for this next chapter. Even after leaving Los Angeles, Powell found a way to make a meaningful impact with the Heat - enough to earn recognition from coaches and peers alike.
“He was able to leave and still make a contribution to the Heat, and he made it, so I’m happy for him,” Leonard added.
And that’s really the heart of it. Powell’s All-Star selection isn’t just a feel-good moment - it’s a reminder that the league still rewards the grinders, the late bloomers, the players who keep showing up and putting in the work even when the spotlight isn’t on them.
In an NBA era often dominated by early stardom and instant gratification, Norman Powell’s story is a refreshing reminder: sometimes, greatness takes time.