LeBron James will not play in Sunday’s All-Star Game, the first time he has been selected but will not participate in the league’s midseason showcase.
The Los Angeles Lakers star announced that he would miss the mini-tournament about 90 minutes before it was set to start, citing foot and ankle discomfort — something he’s dealt with at times for several seasons. He was to play for Shaq’s OGs, the team drafted by Shaquille O’Neal for the All-Star competition.
James’ first All-Star Game was in 2005 and he’s been a pick every year since, so Sunday’s game would have been his 21st. His 20 consecutive All-Star Game starts is a record. He also holds the record for All-Star selections.
James said he planned to return to Los Angeles on Sunday night, with rehab resuming on Monday.
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“No vacation for me,” James said.
James’ plan, for now, is to play when the Lakers start their post-All-Star slate Wednesday against Charlotte in a game that had to be rescheduled because of the wildfires that ravaged the Los Angeles area.
“I hope to be available on Wednesday,” James said.
Reporting by The Associated Press.
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