It’s better late than never for Miami Heat star Norman Powell. The veteran wing was announced as an All-Star reserve for the Eastern Conference on Sunday. It’s Powell’s first All-Star selection of his career. The 6-foot-4 forward has come close several times, but would always come up short.
This time, the coaches voted that Powell deserves to make it in the main event of the All-Star Weekend. The Heat star has appeared in 43 games, averaging 23.0 points (career-high), 3.7 rebounds and 2.6 assists. At 32 years old, the veteran isn’t the oldest player to be named to their first All-Star game.
Nathaniel Clifton takes that title. He was 34 when he made his lone All-Star selection in 1957 for the New York Knicks.
Former NBA star Tracy McGrady passionately cheered for Powell’s All-Star selection during NBC’s broadcast of the Los Angeles Lakers-New York Knicks game.
“Finally!” the 7x All-Star said. “I’ve been vouching for this guy. I thought he should’ve been one last year, but he’s getting his due.
BREAKING: Norman Powell is an NBA All Star 🚨 pic.twitter.com/UkxYOMYVLQ
— Heat Central (@HeatCulture13) February 1, 2026
“He’s just been phenomenal this year, with his first stint with the Miami Heat. Playing great basketball, leading those guys in scoring. I just like his approach to the game. Shout out to Norman Powell, man. Well-deserved.”
Bam Adebayo talked about Norman Powell’s All-Star selection
The Heat’s other All-Star, Bam Adebayo, was grateful that Norman Powell finally earned a spot in the All-Star Game. After Miami’s 134-91 win over the Chicago Bulls, Adebayo expressed his joy for his teammate’s achievement.
“Norman’s fought through a lot, injury-wise,” Adebayo said. “And still pushing, still trying to be something that he’s never done before.
“We felt like he got snubbed last year, and for him to finally get that nod, you’re happy for somebody like that, because he’s put so much work into his craft and he deserves it.”
Unfortunately for the Heat, Powell is the only player on the team who was named an All-Star this season.
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