Thunder's Chet Holmgren Credits Hard Work for All-Star Leap

The young forward reflects on the unseen preparation that led to his first All-Star selection.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren is headed to his first NBA All-Star game, and he credits the hard work he puts in behind the scenes as the key to his breakout season. Holmgren, who is averaging career-highs in points, field goal percentage, and rebounds, says it's the extra time he spends on his game outside of practices and games that has allowed him to take his game to new heights.

Why it matters

Holmgren's selection to the All-Star team at just 22 years old is a testament to his dedication and development as a player. His rise shows that putting in the necessary work, even when no one is watching, can pay off at the highest level of the sport.

The details

Holmgren, the 2nd overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has made a major leap in his second season. He is now averaging 17.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and shooting 56% from the field. Holmgren credits the extra time he spends on his game, from pre-game shootarounds to offseason workouts, as the biggest factor in his All-Star ascension.

  • Holmgren will make his first All-Star appearance on February 19, 2026 in Los Angeles.

The players

Chet Holmgren

A 22-year-old forward for the Oklahoma City Thunder who is making his first NBA All-Star team.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Thunder's star guard who endorsed Holmgren's All-Star selection, citing the young forward's tireless work ethic.

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What they’re saying

“I'd say all the work that isn't in a game. It's the prep before games, the shoot arounds in the morning, the work in the summer; all the things that nobody sees—the rehab from injuries. If you didn't do it, nobody would know about it. But at the end of the day, once you get on the court, that's where it shows up.”

— Chet Holmgren, Thunder Forward (ClutchPoints)

What’s next

Holmgren will make his first All-Star appearance on February 19, 2026 in Los Angeles, where he will play for Team USA Stars alongside other young NBA standouts.

The takeaway

Chet Holmgren's first All-Star selection at just 22 years old is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication. By putting in the extra time and effort on his game, even when no one is watching, Holmgren has been able to make a major leap and establish himself as one of the league's rising stars.