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[Saba Sports News] Domantas Sabonis’s pursuit of an All-Star selection this season was about more than honor; it had significant financial implications. Despite being a three-time All-Star, Sabonis was not named among the 14 reserves for the 2024 NBA All-Star Game, which is set to take place later this month at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. The selection included a historic seven players from a single college, yet omitted the Gonzaga product.
After signing a substantial contract extension with the Sacramento Kings in 2023, Sabonis stood to gain a $1.3 million bonus if he were chosen for the All-Star game. Last season, during his first complete year with the Kings, he earned All-Star status and had been selected for the team three times in the last four years.
In what could be considered an even more impressive season, Sabonis has showcased stellar performance in his second full year with Sacramento. Over 46 games, the 27-year-old has averaged 19.9 points per game, his second-highest career score, alongside career highs of 13.0 rebounds and 8.0 assists per game, with a shooting accuracy of 61.6%.
There remains a slim possibility for Sabonis to join the All-Star team as an injury replacement. However, this path may put him in direct competition with his Kings teammate De’Aaron Fox, who was similarly overlooked for the All-Star selection.