Chandler Parsons Sparks Debate Over LaMelo Ball’s All-Star Snub

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Former NBA player Chandler Parsons ignited a heated debate after questioning LaMelo Ball‘s exclusion from the 2025 NBA All-Star Game starting lineup, despite Ball leading the fan vote. Parsons, who last played in the 2019-20 season, made the comments during an episode of his podcast, arguing that Ball’s performance on a struggling Charlotte Hornets team shouldn’t warrant a starting spot.

“It’s not a snub because you can’t reward a guy on a bottom team like that,” Parsons said. “The guy is having a heck of a year — his numbers are through the roof. He’s averaging 30-plus points, whatever it is. But we’re talking an NBA starter — I think you have to be on a relevant team or somewhat of a good team to get that.”

Ball, the 2021 Rookie of the Year, has been a standout for the Hornets this season, averaging over 30 points per game and solidifying his role as the face of the franchise. Despite his individual success, the Hornets remain near the bottom of the league standings, which Parsons cited as a key factor in his argument.

The controversy stems from the NBA’s All-Star voting system, which divides the selection process among fans (50%), media (25%), and players (25%). While Ball dominated the fan vote, he received only three media votes, placing seventh in that category and ultimately missing out on a starting spot. This discrepancy has reignited discussions about the fairness of the current voting formula.

“The fans clearly want to see him starting in this game,” said Mike Sykes, a basketball analyst. “But the media vote serves as a check on any trolling. So does the player vote to a much lesser extent. It might not feel perfect, but trust me when I say you do NOT want to put All-Star voting solely in the hands of the fans.”

Ball’s supporters argue that his performance and popularity should outweigh his team’s struggles. “The fans are the ones paying for tickets,” one fan commented. “If they want to see LaMelo start, let them have it.”

Despite the snub, Ball is expected to make the All-Star team as a reserve, marking his second appearance in the midseason showcase. Many believe it’s only a matter of time before he secures a starting spot, especially if the Hornets can improve their record in the coming seasons.

Meanwhile, the debate over the NBA’s All-Star voting process continues to divide fans, players, and analysts alike. While some advocate for a return to fan-only voting, others argue that the current system provides a necessary balance to ensure the most deserving players are recognized.