Jalen Duren’s rise, from prospect to All-Star
The Pistons’ center earns his first All-Star selection at just 22, a symbol of Detroit’s growth and a season built on work and consistency
In Detroit, All-Star Sunday suddenly became special when Jalen Duren’s name echoed through Little Caesars Arena. A long-awaited moment, arriving almost quietly, but greeted with a smile that said everything.
At 22 years old, Duren is one of the best stories of this NBA season. No hype, no media frenzy – just work, growth and consistency. His selection as a reserve for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game makes him the third member of the Detroit Pistons to be chosen, alongside Cade Cunningham and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. A strong signal from a franchise that is once again making itself noticed.
The numbers clearly show the leap forward: 18 points and nearly 11 rebounds per game, with a defensive impact never seen before in his career. His defensive rating is the best of his career and confirms his constant presence around the rim. Against Brooklyn, in the lopsided 130-77 win, he finished with 21 points and 10 rebounds in just 24 minutes. Business as usual, by now.
It’s been amazing. And that’s why we’re here, and that’s why we do this job: to try to help people reach their goals. Working with him is a pleasure every single day.
Jalen Duren
Duren didn’t hide his emotion after the game. He spoke about gratitude, teammates and coaches. Simple, genuine words that perfectly reflect the way he plays the game. Around the league, people have noticed as well: the respect of NBA coaches, praise from veterans like Draymond Green, and the clear pride shown by Bickerstaff.
His attitude is always the same, as is his approach and his work ethic. His desire to learn and improve, and his willingness to do whatever we ask to help the team win, have been simply incredible.
Jalen Duren
The Pistons’ coach made it clear: Duren is growing every day, especially as a leader. And that may be the most important detail of all, considering the Memphis product is posting career highs across all major statistical categories.
The All-Star Game is a milestone, not a finish line. But for Jalen Duren, it’s confirmation that Detroit has found its center for the future. And this time, no one can say he got there by chance.