NBA coaches are clearly impressed: Victor Wembanyama has been recognized as one of the league’s top talents.

The San Antonio Spurs star, who recently earned Rookie of the Year honors, is among the 14 players named to the reserve pool for the All-Star event set for February 16 in San Francisco.

Wembanyama is just the fourth player from the Spurs to be selected for the All-Star Game within his first two seasons, joining Alvin Robertson (1986), David Robinson (1990, 1991), and Tim Duncan (1998).

“This honors his great efforts during his first year and a half, combined with the preparation and the dedication to the game,” said acting Spurs coach Mitch Johnson in Paris about Wembanyama’s selection. “This approach has allowed his unique skills to stand out.”

The selection process involves coaches picking reserves, following the announcement of ten starters based on fan, media, and player votes.

From the East, the players selected include Jaylen Brown, Pascal Siakam, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, Cade Cunningham, Damian Lillard, and Tyler Herro. From the West, Wembanyama qualifies alongside Anthony Edwards, Anthony Davis, James Harden, Jaren Jackson Jr., Alperen Sengun, and Jalen Williams, all first-time All-Stars.

In a recent statement, Tyler Herro stated, “It’s a great opportunity to be involved.”

Meanwhile, the previously announced starters include Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, LeBron James, Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, among others wielding substantial influence in the NBA.

Wembanyama and other players face the prospect of fierce competition, with the All-Star Game format evolving this year to feature a draft by popular former players, including legends like Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley. The selected teams will then participate in a four-team tournament. The draft is scheduled for February 6.

In the context of past All-Star Games, changes were made following a record high-scoring game last season.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver remarked, “After discussions with players, we believe we’ve improved the competitiveness of the format this year.”

Among the players who did not make the All-Star roster are LaMelo Ball, Trae Young, Domantas Sabonis, and several others, all of whom put up impressive numbers but fell short in the selection process.