Chet Holmgren, the towering talent who once dominated the courts at Gonzaga, has just achieved another monumental milestone in his basketball career: he’s been named an NBA All-Star reserve player. But here’s where it gets even more impressive—this honor comes hot on the heels of his NBA championship win last season, solidifying his status as one of the league’s brightest stars. For Holmgren, this isn’t just a personal victory; it’s a testament to his relentless work ethic and the impact he’s made in just his third NBA season.
The 23-year-old Oklahoma City Thunder standout earned his first All-Star selection on Sunday, joining an elite Western Conference roster that includes legends like LeBron James, Jamal Murray, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Anthony Edwards. And this is the part most people miss—Holmgren is now the third former Gonzaga player to make an All-Star team, following in the footsteps of NBA greats John Stockton (10-time All-Star) and Domantas Sabonis (three-time All-Star). This achievement not only highlights his individual brilliance but also cements Gonzaga’s reputation as a powerhouse for developing top-tier talent.
What’s truly remarkable is how quickly Holmgren has risen to prominence. In just 44 starts this season, he’s become the Thunder’s second-leading scorer, averaging 17.7 points per game, while also leading the team in rebounding with 8.5 per game (among players with at least 27 games played). His defensive prowess is equally impressive, ranking third in the NBA with 2.1 blocks per game and 12th in field goal percentage at 56.6%. But here’s the controversial part—some critics argue that Holmgren’s rapid success is due to his unique skill set, which blends height, agility, and shooting ability. Is he redefining what it means to be a modern big man, or is his rise simply a product of the league’s evolving style of play? Let’s discuss in the comments.
This year’s All-Star Game, set for February 15 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, promises to be unlike any other. For the first time, the event will feature a round-robin tournament with two teams of U.S. players and one team of international players, known as the World Team, competing in four 12-minute games. It’s a bold new format that’s sure to spark debate among fans. Catch all the action locally on NonStop Local KHQ or stream it on Peacock.
As Holmgren steps onto the All-Star stage, one thing is clear: his journey from Gonzaga Bulldog to NBA champion to All-Star is nothing short of inspiring. But here’s the question we can’t stop thinking about—how high is his ceiling? Will he become a perennial All-Star, or is this just the beginning of an even greater legacy? Share your thoughts below—we’re eager to hear your take!
