Chet Holmgren among leaders in 2024 NBA All-Star voting

Former Gonzaga star had the ninth-most votes for Western Conference frontcourt players entering pivotal voting day on Friday

A rookie hasn't been named an NBA All-Star since Blake Griffin did so in 2011, but two uniquely skilled 7-footers are likely going to change that in 2023-24.

Upon the first count of NBA All-Star votes revealed Thursday, Chet Holmgren was among the top 10 players in the Western Conference frontcourt along with fellow rookie Victor Wembanyama. Holmgren checked in at No. 9 with 329,154 votes, while Wembanyama was just ahead at No. 8 with 426,419 votes entering a pivotal "3-for-1" voting day on Friday in which all fan votes count as three. Giannis Antetokounmpo (3.5 million) and LeBron James (3.1 million) led all players in votes.

Holmgren is second among all rookies in points (18.0) rebounds (7.3) and blocks (2.5) per game behind Wembanyama. The former Gonzaga men's basketball standout has the edge in efficiency and in the win column, as Holmgren is shooting 55.9% from the field and 40.1% on 3-point attempts for the Oklahoma City Thunder (26-11). Wembanyama's San Antonio Spurs (6-30) have struggled in 2023-24, though the 7-foot-4 Frenchman has shown he can take over a game when needed.

Wembanyama is averaging 19.2 points, 10.2 rebounds and 3.2 blocks through 32 career games. His 16 double-doubles ranks as the most among all rookies.

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A notable former Gonzaga star was left off the first ballot of names — Domantas Sabonis, who leads the NBA in rebounding and is second in triple-doubles. The Sacramento Kings' All-NBA center is averaging 20.2 points, 12.7 rebounds and 7.7 assists while shooting 60.4% from the field. He's been one of the game's hottest players as of late, as he leads the NBA in combined points, rebounds and assists in the new year, per statmuse.com.

Fans account for 50% of the vote to decide All-Star starters. There will be two more 3-for-1 days on Jan. 15 and Jan. 19 before voting concludes on Jan. 20. The NBA All-Star Game starters will be revealed on TNT on Jan. 25, while the reserves will be announced on Feb. 1.