Julius Randle Earns First NBA All-Star Appearance

(NBA Getty Images | Knicks)

Seven seasons into his NBA career, former Wildcat Julius Randle is playing his best basketball. The New York Knick was rewarded for his exceptional play with his first ever invitation to the NBA All-Star Game. The league announced he will be a reserve for the Eastern Conference’s pool of players.

The power forward from Plano, Tx. has reignited his career following the addition of Tom Thibodeau and Kenny Payne. Through 31 games of his second season in the Big Apple, Randle is averaging 23.2 points, 11 rebounds and 5.5 assists while shooting 48.1% from the floor and 41.3% from three.

The first Knick to earn an All-Star nod since Carmelo Anthony in 2017, Randle talked about the significance of the recognition earlier today.

“It would mean a lot,” Randle said. “My goal was never just to play in the NBA. I always felt that I would get there. I just wanted to be the best player I could possibly be and reach my potential. And I try to push myself every day to do so. It would definitely be a milestone.”

Randle was not the only former Wildcat recognized. Anthony Davis earned a spot as an All-Star reserve, although an injury will likely sideline him from the game. Once again, Devin Booker was snubbed by voters.

NBA All-Star weekend has been truncated into a one-night event, taking place March 7 in Atlanta.