The 2024–25 NBA season has been one for the books — thrilling finishes, breakout stars, and a playoff race tighter than ever. But as the postseason rages on, the regular season awards continue to roll in, and one of the most prestigious honors of all has officially been announced: the All-NBA First Team — also known, this year, as the ALL-NBA UNO 👏.
Why the “UNO” treatment? Because the players who made this squad didn’t just rise above the competition — they dominated it. These are the five superstars who were undeniably No. 1 at their respective positions, playing at MVP-caliber levels and changing the narrative every time they stepped on the court.
Let’s break down the five players who made up this year’s All-NBA First Team and why their selection has the basketball world nodding in full agreement — and a little awe.
🏀 Guard: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — Oklahoma City Thunder
There’s no denying it anymore — SGA is that guy. Averaging 31.4 points, 6.7 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, Gilgeous-Alexander was the consistent heartbeat of a young and fearless Thunder team that not only made the playoffs but claimed the No. 1 seed in the West.
Shai plays the game with an old-school smoothness and new-school efficiency. He glides to the basket, hits mid-range jumpers with surgical precision, and reads defenses like a seasoned vet. Oh, and he defends too — really well. It’s no surprise he made the All-NBA First Team for the second year in a row, but this season felt different: it felt like he owned the moment.
If there’s one guard you want leading your franchise for the next 10 years, SGA might be the name at the top of that list.
🏀 Guard: Luka Dončić — Dallas Mavericks
Another year, another All-NBA First Team selection for Luka Dončić — and rightfully so. Luka averaged a mind-boggling 33.9 points, 9.2 assists, and 8.8 rebounds, continuing his campaign as arguably the most complete offensive player in the league.
The Mavericks leaned heavily on their superstar, and Luka delivered in vintage fashion: step-back threes, clutch moments, and triple-doubles galore. His ability to manipulate the pace of the game is unmatched, and no matter the defensive scheme, Luka always finds a way to get his — and make his teammates better.
At just 26, he already has five All-NBA First Team selections. That’s not just elite company — that’s historic.
🏀 Forward: Jayson Tatum — Boston Celtics
After years of climbing, Jayson Tatum has officially arrived — and he’s staying on top. Tatum posted career highs in efficiency this season while anchoring the Celtics on both ends of the floor. His averages of 27.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists are only part of the story.
Tatum’s two-way dominance, leadership, and poise in the clutch helped the Celtics secure a top seed and establish themselves as legitimate title favorites. He’s no longer just the face of Boston’s future — he’s the face of their present.
This is Tatum’s third consecutive All-NBA First Team nod, and based on his trajectory, it certainly won’t be his last.
🏀 Forward: Giannis Antetokounmpo — Milwaukee Bucks
Say it with us: Giannis. Is. Still. Him.
The Greek Freak had another monstrous season — 30.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game — and did it all while remaining one of the league’s best defenders. His motor never stops, and his commitment to winning never wavers.
Milwaukee may have faced ups and downs throughout the season, but Giannis remained a constant force. No player blends power, speed, and athleticism quite like him. When he’s on the floor, every team knows they’re in for a long night.
This is Giannis’s sixth All-NBA First Team selection in the last seven years. What we’re witnessing is one of the greatest careers in NBA history — still unfolding in real time.
🏀 Center: Nikola Jokić — Denver Nuggets
The Joker strikes again. Nikola Jokić, fresh off his third MVP award, rounds out the All-NBA UNO team — and there was never a doubt.
Jokić put up 26.4 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game, orchestrating Denver’s offense like a point guard in a seven-footer’s body. No big man has ever passed like this. Few have ever controlled the game like this. And no one in today’s NBA plays with quite the same level of joyful dominance.
Denver’s system relies on Jokić doing everything — and he does. Efficiently. Relentlessly. Brilliantly.
With his third consecutive First Team nod and yet another MVP season, Jokić continues to redefine what’s possible from the center position.
👏 The Best of the Best — And a Glimpse of the Future
The 2025 All-NBA First Team isn’t just a list of names — it’s a snapshot of where the league is headed. Shai, Luka, Tatum, Giannis, and Jokić aren’t just elite players; they’re the global faces of the game, each with a unique style and approach, captivating fans in every time zone.
And while All-NBA voting always stirs debate, this year’s First Team feels right. These five didn’t just have great seasons — they had defining seasons. They were UNO — the No. 1s at their positions, setting the standard and pushing the boundaries of what greatness looks like.
So raise a hand 👏, raise a toast 🍻, or raise the volume 🔊 — the All-NBA UNO squad deserves it.
We’re not just witnessing greatness. We’re living in it.
