In a significant development for the upcoming National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Star tournament, Turkish center Alperen Sengun of the Houston Rockets has been chosen to fill the spot left by Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the World Team roster. This selection comes as Gilgeous-Alexander is currently sidelined due to an abdominal strain, preventing him from participating in the highly anticipated event scheduled for next week.
Injury Sidelines MVP Candidate
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is widely regarded as a frontrunner for both the regular season and Finals MVP awards this season, has been ruled out of the All-Star Game because he is still recovering from his abdominal injury. This setback marks a disappointing turn for the Thunder star, who has been instrumental in his team's performance throughout the 2025-26 campaign. His absence will undoubtedly be felt on the court, but it opens an opportunity for another rising talent to showcase his skills on the global stage.
Sengun's Breakthrough Season
Alperen Sengun's inclusion in the All-Star Game represents a major milestone in his career, as this will be his first appearance in the prestigious event. The Houston Rockets center has been putting up impressive numbers this season, averaging 20.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. These statistics highlight his versatility and impact on both ends of the floor, making him a deserving replacement for the injured Gilgeous-Alexander.
Sengun's selection underscores his rapid development and growing reputation in the league, as he continues to establish himself as a key player for the Rockets. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how he performs alongside other top international stars in the All-Star Game, which serves as a celebration of basketball excellence from around the world.
