Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard has officially been named a 2025 NBA All-Star, marking his second consecutive selection since joining the Bucks and the ninth of his career. While his inclusion may not come as a surprise given his long-established reputation as one of the league’s premier guards, Lillard’s continued excellence at this stage of his career underscores just how impactful he remains.
Bucks Star Damian Lillard Earns Ninth All-Star Selection
An Improved Season and Milestones
Lillard’s All-Star selection is a reflection of his strong 2024-25 campaign, where he is averaging 25.3 points (13th in the NBA) and 7.3 assists (13th in the NBA) per game. Lillard is one of only five players this season averaging at least 25 points and 7 assists per game. His shooting splits—45.2% from the field, 38.2% from three, and 92.2% from the free-throw line—have improved from last season. Beyond raw numbers, Lillard has continued to deliver in key moments, recording two triple-doubles in back-to-back games (Jan. 23 vs. Miami and Jan. 25 vs. the Clippers) and surpassing 22,000 career points on Jan. 19, becoming just the 38th player in NBA history to reach that milestone.
A key aspect of Lillard’s resurgence has been his growing chemistry with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Early in the season, concerns about their fit dominated headlines as the Bucks struggled out of the gate. However, as the season has progressed, the duo has found its rhythm. Their two-man game has become a focal point of the offense.
Historic Company in Milwaukee
Lillard’s impact in Milwaukee has put him in elite franchise company. With his second straight All-Star nod as a Buck, he joins only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson as the only players in franchise history to be named an All-Star in both of their first two seasons with the team.
| Rk | Player | Age | From | To | G | MP | FG | FGA | FG% | 2P | 2PA | 2P% | 3P | 3PA | 3P% | eFG% | FT | FTA | FT% | TRB | AST | STL | BLK | TOV | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar | 22-23 | 1969-70 | 1970-71 | 164 | 41.6 | 12.2 | 22.3 | .548 | 12.2 | 22.3 | .548 | .548 | 5.8 | 8.7 | .671 | 15.3 | 3.7 | 30.2 | ||||||
| 2 | Damian Lillard | 33-34 | 2023-24 | 2024-25 | 111 | 35.7 | 7.6 | 17.4 | .433 | 4.4 | 8.8 | .502 | 3.2 | 8.7 | .364 | .524 | 6.4 | 6.9 | .921 | 4.5 | 7.1 | 1.1 | 0.2 | 2.7 | 24.7 |
| 3 | Oscar Robertson | 32-33 | 1970-71 | 1971-72 | 145 | 38.5 | 7.0 | 14.3 | .486 | 7.0 | 14.3 | .486 | .486 | 4.6 | 5.4 | .844 | 5.4 | 8.0 | 18.5 |
Damian Lillard’s Journey to Another All-Star Appearance
Lillard’s road to All-Star recognition this season wasn’t without competition. He started strong in early fan voting but saw his momentum slow as Jalen Brunson surged in popularity due to the New York Knicks’ strong first half of the season. However, NBA coaches, who voted for the reserves, recognized Lillard’s continued excellence, helping him secure a well-earned spot in San Francisco. One factor that likely played in his favor was his standout performance in last year’s All-Star Game, where he claimed MVP honors with a 39-point outing. Now, he’ll have another chance to shine on the national stage, this time in a revamped format featuring a tournament-style competition among four teams.
Beyond the All-Star Game, Lillard’s focus will remain on helping the Bucks prepare for the playoffs. Milwaukee has already secured the NBA Cup this season, and Lillard’s focus remains on keeping the team competitive and ready for the challenges ahead. His leadership and playmaking will be crucial in ensuring the Bucks enter the postseason in the best possible form.
On Feb. 16, when the best players in the league take the court in San Francisco, Lillard will once again be among them—an undeniable reminder of his enduring excellence.
Photo credit: © Candice Ward-Imagn Images
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