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NBA: 5 Rising stars that stood out in first wave of All-Star voting

By Loyal Ricks Jr

NBA player Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NBA player Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /
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The 2023 All-Star Game is quickly approaching, and NBA fans are already casting their votes. The first wave of the results from fan voting was released Thursday afternoon, sending NBA Twitter into a frenzy.

Explosive performances from a handful of elite hoopers are considered as spectators voice their opinions on who should represent the association. Fans accounted for fifty percent of the final vote.

The remaining fifty percent is divided between media and player opinions, giving the fans the most power in selecting superstars. While coaches prepare their teams to finish strong before the break, which players have performed well enough to receive positive reactions in the All-Star voting?

Golden State Warriors, Kevon LooneySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 05: Kevon Looney #5 of the Golden State Warriors drunks during the first quarter against the Boston Celtics in Game Two of the 2022 NBA Finals at Chase Center on June 05, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors, Kevon LooneySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 05: Kevon Looney #5 of the Golden State Warriors drunks during the first quarter against the Boston Celtics in Game Two of the 2022 NBA Finals at Chase Center on June 05, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

NBA All-Star #5: Kevon Looney
C, Golden State Warriors

Developing talent in the association is a rigorous task. It requires patience from the coaching staff and surrounding teammates for effective results. Steve Kurr understood this assignment when working with their former first-round pick. Kevin Looney’s progression since entering the league is astonishing and is worth All-Star recognition. He’s earned a prominent role on the Warriors roster – aiding Golden State in their goal to maintain championship expectations.

In 2015, Looney averaged less than five minutes on the court and only two rebounds per game. This season, the Warriors big man ranks seventh in rebounding (8.4) and is involved in crucial moments in the game. Looney’s consistent development is helping the Warriors stay afloat in the West and deserves recognition.