In an era dominated by dynamic playmakers and towering centers, the 2023-24 All-NBA teams have been announced, spotlighting none other than Golden State Warriors’ Steph Curry and Sacramento Kings’ Domantas Sabonis. Both have secured spots on the prestigious All-NBA Third Team, each marking significant milestones in their illustrious careers.
Steph Curry, a name synonymous with revolutionary basketball, has achieved a Warriors franchise-record 10th All-NBA Team selection. This accolade spans First Team (four times), Second Team (four times), and now, Third Team (twice). Steph Curry’s landmark 10th selection catapults him into an elite group, becoming the 26th player in NBA history to earn double-digit All-NBA honors.
Reflecting on Steph Curry’s incredible journey, Warriors coach Steve Kerr praised his unwavering commitment and skill: “It’s amazing — 10 times now Steph’s been an All-NBA player.
The brilliance for an entire decade is so rare. Steph’s been an MVP a couple of times, a four-time champion, but 10 straight years, or at least 10 out of 11, I guess, with the one year with the injury, to be All-NBA is just a testament to Steph’s work ethic, obviously his skill and his talent, but also his desire to continue to be great and to continue get better every single year.”
Domantas Sabonis: A Rising Star in Sacramento
On the other side of the court, Domantas Sabonis has not only matched but also enhanced his standing from the previous season. This marks his second consecutive selection to the All-NBA Third Team, a testament to his growing impact in the league.
Sabonis’s recognition this season further cements his status as a key player in the Kings’ lineup and makes him the 10th player in the franchise’s history to earn back-to-back All-NBA honors.
The inclusion of both Steph Curry and Domantas Sabonis in the Third Team underscores their significant contributions to their respective teams and highlights their ability to perform at the highest level amid intense competition. This season, the All-NBA teams were chosen without regard to position, a reflection of the evolving nature of the game which now values versatility and adaptability.
A Season of Surprises and Snubs
The 2023-24 All-NBA selections also come with their share of surprises and snubs. Notable among those who made the cut are Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic, Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James (who also featured on the Third Team alongside Steph Curry and Domantas Sabonis), and Minnesota Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards.
However, stars like Jaylen Brown from the Boston Celtics and Tyrese Maxey from the Philadelphia 76ers found themselves outside looking in, sparking debates among fans and analysts alike.
Steph Curry: Reflecting on the Legacy of All-NBA Selections
The All-NBA teams have a storied history, dating back to their inception in the 1946-47 season. Originally, the selection was composed without strict adherence to player positions, a tradition that has been revisited in the latest teams. LeBron James continues to top the list with the most All-NBA nods, totaling 20, including 13 on the First Team, the most by any player.
As the 2023-24 NBA season progresses, the performances of Steph Curry and Domantas Sabonis will be closely watched to see if they can maintain their high standards and perhaps climb higher in future All-NBA Team selections. Their journey is not just about personal accolades but also about inspiring the next generation of players who dream of leaving their mark on the basketball court.