The end of the 2024–25 NBA regular season brought no shortage of storylines, from breakout stars and rising contenders to veteran dominance and postseason drama. But one of the league’s most prestigious honors—being named to the All-NBA First Team—remains a benchmark for elite individual performance.
This year’s All-NBA First Team was particularly stacked, reflecting not just statistical excellence but all-around impact on winning. With a new generation continuing to rise while some familiar faces refuse to fade, the 2024–25 All-NBA First Team is a perfect snapshot of where the league stands today—and where it’s headed.
Let’s break down the five stars who earned their place on this year’s All-NBA First Team 👏:
Guard: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — Oklahoma City Thunder
Stats: 31.2 PPG | 6.5 APG | 5.8 RPG | 2.1 SPG | 53% FG
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander built on his breakout 2023–24 season with another campaign of sheer brilliance. Leading a young and surging Thunder team to a top seed in the Western Conference, SGA showcased a complete game—smooth mid-range shooting, strong drives, and elite defense. He ranked among the league leaders in scoring and steals, but more than that, he established himself as a true franchise cornerstone and MVP candidate.
The Thunder’s offense flowed through Shai’s poised decision-making and clutch shot-making. Defensively, he was one of the most disruptive guards in the league. With Oklahoma City looking like a legitimate title contender, SGA’s inclusion on the First Team was all but inevitable.
Guard: Luka Dončić — Dallas Mavericks
Stats: 34.0 PPG | 9.8 APG | 9.1 RPG | 1.4 SPG | 37% 3PT
Luka Dončić had arguably his most dominant season yet—and that’s saying something. The Slovenian superstar continued to post eye-popping numbers that defy belief, nearly averaging a triple-double while leading the Mavericks to a top-five finish in the West.
More importantly, Dončić showed improved leadership and defensive effort, addressing past criticisms about consistency and conditioning. His offensive skillset remains unparalleled—step-back threes, no-look passes, and crafty finishes that make him look like he’s playing chess while others play checkers. When you’re leading the league in scoring and still making your teammates better, First Team status is automatic.
Forward: Jayson Tatum — Boston Celtics
Stats: 28.4 PPG | 8.7 RPG | 4.6 APG | 48% FG | Best team record in NBA
Tatum’s continued evolution as a two-way superstar helped propel the Boston Celtics to the best record in the league for the second straight season. Playing with poise and confidence, Tatum anchored both ends of the floor while leading the Celtics in scoring.
His combination of size, shooting, and footwork makes him a matchup nightmare. And with his commitment on defense and rebounding, Tatum is no longer just a scorer—he’s become one of the league’s most complete forwards. At just 27, he’s now a four-time First Team selection and a perennial MVP candidate.
Forward: Giannis Antetokounmpo — Milwaukee Bucks
Stats: 30.5 PPG | 11.3 RPG | 5.9 APG | 61% FG | 1.5 BPG
No All-NBA First Team feels right without Giannis, and 2024–25 was no exception. Despite the Bucks navigating some ups and downs, Giannis remained an unstoppable force. His scoring efficiency was off the charts, and his ability to dominate games on both ends of the floor kept Milwaukee in the mix all season.
The two-time MVP and former champion is a walking double-double with highlight-reel blocks and dunks every night. Giannis’ motor never stops, and his leadership this season—especially in tight games—earned him yet another First Team nod. He continues to define greatness through consistency, effort, and an unmatched will to win.
Center: Nikola Jokić — Denver Nuggets
Stats: 26.9 PPG | 12.4 RPG | 9.0 APG | 1.3 SPG | 58% FG
The Joker doesn’t need the spotlight—his game speaks for itself. Nikola Jokić once again proved why he’s one of the greatest centers in NBA history, nearly averaging a triple-double while guiding the defending champion Nuggets to a top-four seed.
His basketball IQ remains off the charts. Whether he’s running the offense from the elbow, making behind-the-back passes in transition, or knocking down clutch threes, Jokić does it all—without ego or flash. His calm demeanor masks a relentless competitiveness, and his play this season reminded everyone why he’s always in the MVP conversation. First Team? No-brainer.
Honorable Mentions
Several players had phenomenal seasons and came close to First Team recognition. Among them:
- Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves): Exploded into superstardom and led the Wolves deep into the playoffs.
- Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns): Efficient, explosive, and reliable as ever.
- Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors): Still magical, still elite, even as the Warriors transition.
- Kawhi Leonard (LA Clippers): Quiet dominance on both ends when healthy.
- Domantas Sabonis (Sacramento Kings): Another triple-double machine with elite rebounding.
Final Thoughts
This year’s All-NBA First Team represents more than just gaudy numbers—it’s a celebration of players who dominate night in and night out, elevate their teams, and set the standard for greatness. Whether it’s Luka’s brilliance, Giannis’ intensity, or Jokić’s unique genius, each player brings a distinct flavor to the table.
As the postseason unfolds and legacies continue to grow, these five stars can now add another line to their already-impressive resumes: 2024–25 All-NBA First Team. 👏
And if the season taught us anything, it’s that the future of the league is in incredibly capable hands.
