Sengun All-Star
Sengun steps in for Gilgeous-Alexander
Alperen Sengun / Shai Gilgeous-Alexander / Houston, United States / NBA / NBA All-Star Game /

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Last Updated
2/9/2026
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The Breakdown 7

  • In a thrilling turn of events, Alperen Sengun of the Houston Rockets has been named the official replacement for injured reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game.
  • Following injury news that sidelined Gilgeous-Alexander, Sengun now has the chance to shine on Team World, showcasing his skills alongside elite players like Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama.
  • The All-Star Game features an exciting new format that pits Team USA against Team World, celebrating the league’s global talent.
  • NBA Commissioner Adam Silver made the announcement, elevating Sengun’s status and highlighting the significance of this opportunity for the young player.
  • As a Turkish player stepping into this high-profile game, Sengun’s selection reflects the diverse representation within the league and promises to bring international flair to the event.
  • With the All-Star Game just a week away, anticipation builds around Sengun’s upcoming performance in a matchup filled with exceptional talent.

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Alperen Sengun / Shai Gilgeous-Alexander / Nikola Jokic / Victor Wembanyama / Adam Silver / Houston, United States / NBA / NBA All-Star Game /

Further Learning

Who is Alperen Sengun?

Alperen Sengun is a Turkish professional basketball player who plays as a center for the Houston Rockets in the NBA. He was born on July 25, 2002, and gained recognition for his exceptional skills and versatility on the court. Sengun was selected by the Rockets as the 16th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. His playing style is characterized by strong post moves, passing ability, and rebounding prowess, making him a valuable asset to his team.

What is the NBA All-Star Game format?

The NBA All-Star Game is an annual exhibition game featuring the league's star players. In recent years, it has adopted a format where players are divided into two teams: Team USA and Team World, showcasing international talent against American players. This format aims to highlight global representation in basketball and create a competitive yet entertaining atmosphere. The All-Star Game also includes various events like the Slam Dunk Contest and Three-Point Contest, adding to the festivities.

Why did Shai Gilgeous-Alexander get replaced?

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP, was replaced in the NBA All-Star Game due to an injury. Injuries are common in professional sports, and they can prevent players from participating in significant events like the All-Star Game. His absence created an opportunity for another player, in this case, Alperen Sengun, to showcase his talents on a prestigious platform, highlighting the depth of talent in the league.

What teams are in the World Team roster?

The World Team roster in the NBA All-Star Game typically includes elite international players from various countries. In this specific instance, Alperen Sengun joined a roster that featured other notable big men like Nikola Jokic from Serbia and Victor Wembanyama from France. This diverse lineup emphasizes the global reach of basketball and showcases top talents from around the world, competing against the best players from the USA.

How does Sengun's play style compare to Gilgeous-Alexander?

Alperen Sengun and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have different play styles due to their positions. Sengun, as a center, focuses on scoring in the paint, rebounding, and facilitating plays through passing. He is known for his footwork and post moves. In contrast, Gilgeous-Alexander is a guard who excels in perimeter shooting, driving to the basket, and creating scoring opportunities for himself and teammates. While both are talented, their skill sets cater to their respective roles on the court.

What impact does this have on the Rockets' season?

Alperen Sengun's selection as an All-Star replacement can have a positive impact on the Houston Rockets' season. It highlights his development and potential as a key player for the team. His performance in the All-Star Game can boost his confidence and provide valuable experience on a national stage. Additionally, it showcases the Rockets' commitment to building around young talent, which could enhance team morale and attract future players to the franchise.

What is the significance of All-Star selections?

All-Star selections are significant as they recognize players' outstanding performances during the season. Being chosen for the All-Star Game is an honor that can elevate a player's status in the league, impacting their career and marketability. It also serves as a platform for showcasing talent to a broader audience, which can lead to endorsements and increased fan support. For teams, having All-Stars can enhance their reputation and attract future talent to join their roster.

How are All-Star replacements typically chosen?

All-Star replacements are typically chosen by the NBA commissioner or designated officials when a player cannot participate due to injury or other reasons. The selection process considers players' performances, team standings, and overall impact on the game. The goal is to ensure that deserving players who have excelled during the season get the opportunity to participate, maintaining the competitive spirit of the All-Star Game while also showcasing a diverse range of talent.

What are Sengun's career highlights so far?

Alperen Sengun's career highlights include being selected as the 16th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft and quickly establishing himself as a promising young talent in the league. He has showcased impressive skills in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking, earning recognition for his basketball IQ and versatility. His recent selection as an All-Star replacement further solidifies his status as an emerging star in the NBA, reflecting his growth and contributions to the Houston Rockets.

How does this affect Team World’s chances in the game?

Alperen Sengun's addition to Team World enhances their chances in the NBA All-Star Game by bringing in a skilled and dynamic player. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively can help balance the team's strengths and weaknesses. With other elite players like Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama, Sengun's presence adds depth to the roster. The collective talent of Team World aims to compete effectively against Team USA, making for an exciting and competitive matchup.

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