The touching moment when Jalen Duren found out he was an All-Star
For many players, making it to the NBA All-Star Game is a testament to their hard work, dedication and talent. It’s a distinction that many can’t have, which explains why Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren looked proud after learning he’s been chosen as one of the understudy for next month’s star-studded affair in Los Angeles.
Duren will play in the mid-season classic for the first timejoined teammate Cade Cunningham. It is the first time the Pistons will have more than one player in the NBA All-Star Game since 2008.
The 22-year-old Duren had no idea he had been selected as one of the Eastern Conference reserves until the stadium announcer announced it before Sunday’s game between the Pistons and the Brooklyn Nets at Little Caesars Arena.
To last flashed a wide smile as the fans showered him with applause.
The moment Jalen Duren found out he was named an All-Star for the first time ❤ pic.twitter.com/kTKkkj2Gfk
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 1, 2026
It was certainly a moment to remember for the fast-rising center, who the Pistons acquired in a three-team trade with the Charlotte Hornets and New York Knicks on the day of the 2022 draft.
The 13th overall pick showed brilliance in his rookie season, playing behind Isaiah Stewart and Marvin Bagley III. He continued to work on his game, earning a starting role in his sophomore year. He averaged a double-double in the last two campaigns.
His strength, toughness and tenacity make him a force in the paint, serving as the perfect complement to Cunningham.
The Pistons destroyed the Nets, 130-77. It was the team’s heaviest win ever. Duren scored 21 points on 8-of-12 field goal shooting, 10 rebounds, three assists and two steals.
2026-02-02 03:05:00
