Jalen Duren Named NBA All-Star Reserve, Shines as Pistons Center
Jalen Duren, the talented center for the Detroit Pistons, has been named a reserve for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game. His selection recognizes his outstanding performance this season, contributing significantly to the Pistons, who are leading the Eastern Conference with a record of 35-12.
All-Star Selection Details
Duren’s selection as an All-Star reserve was announced on February 1, joining teammate Cade Cunningham and coach J.B. Bickerstaff in the spotlight. The announcement came from NBC as part of the build-up to the NBA’s marquee weekend event.
2026 NBA All-Star Weekend Schedule
The All-Star Weekend will take place from February 13 to 15 in Los Angeles. Events will be hosted at the Intuit Dome, home of the LA Clippers. The main event, the 75th NBA All-Star Game, is scheduled for 5 p.m. on February 15.
- February 13: All-Star Celebrity Game at 7 p.m.
- February 13: Rising Stars Game at 9 p.m.
- February 14: All-Star Media Day at 1:30 p.m.
- February 14: All-Star Saturday (skills competition, 3-point contest, dunk contest) at 5 p.m.
- February 15: 75th NBA All-Star Game at 5 p.m.
Performance Highlights
This season, Duren is averaging a career-high 18 points along with 10.7 rebounds per game. His extraordinary skills in scoring, rebounding, and rim protection have contributed to the Pistons’ success, a fact acknowledged by coach Bickerstaff.
Bickerstaff commented on Duren’s impact on winning, emphasizing that a team atop the conference deserves recognition for multiple players in the All-Star Game.
Historical Context
This marks the first time the Pistons have had multiple All-Star representatives since 2008, when icons such as Chauncey Billups, Rip Hamilton, and Rasheed Wallace were honored. Cunningham, named a starter this year, also marks a significant milestone as the first Piston to start in consecutive All-Star Games since Billups.
Future Prospects for Duren
At just 22 years old, Duren’s prospects are bright. Selected as the 13th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, he made the All-Rookie Second Team in his first season. As a restricted free agent this offseason, the Pistons can match any offer Duren may receive from other teams.
Conclusion
Jalen Duren’s All-Star selection is a testament to his hard work and talent in the NBA. As the Pistons aim for continued success in the Eastern Conference, Duren’s contributions will be crucial in the upcoming season and beyond.
