NBA All Star 2020 Voting Guide: How to Cast Your Ballot and See Your Favorite Players

As I sit here scrolling through the latest NBA updates, I can't help but feel that familiar thrill building up—the 2020 All-Star voting is about to kick off, and this year feels particularly special. Having followed the league for over a decade, I've seen All-Star weekends evolve from simple fan favorites to global spectacles, but the core of it all remains the same: it's our chance, as fans, to shape the event. I remember back in 2016, when the voting process shifted to include more digital options, it made the experience so much more engaging. This time around, with the NBA's push for inclusivity and global reach, I'm excited to walk you through how to cast your ballot and why it matters more than ever. Let's dive in, because honestly, if you're like me, you don't want to miss out on seeing your top picks—like LeBron James or Giannis Antetokounmpo—take the court in Chicago.

Now, when it comes to voting, the NBA has streamlined the process to make it super accessible. You can vote through the NBA app, the official website, or even via social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook by using specific player hashtags. I've found the app to be the most convenient; it's user-friendly and sends reminders so you don't forget to vote daily. Starting December 25th, 2019, and running through January 20th, 2020, fans get to submit one ballot per day, which adds up to a total of 27 opportunities if you vote every single day. That might sound like a lot, but in my experience, it's worth it to ensure your voice is heard. Last year, over 20 million votes were cast globally, and I'd bet that number will climb this season given the rising international interest. Personally, I make it a ritual to vote during my morning coffee—it's a fun way to start the day and feel connected to the game.

But let's talk about why this voting process isn't just about popularity; it's a reflection of dedication and community, something that resonates deeply when I think about stories like the one involving Afril Bernardino, Janine Pontejos, and Chack Cabinbin. These athletes, who are enlisted members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, face the real possibility of missing their own campaigns due to their duties. It's a powerful reminder that behind every vote, there are individuals balancing immense responsibilities. In their case, the positivity and support from fans can make a huge difference, much like how our All-Star votes uplift players who might be overlooked. I've always believed that sports transcend the court, and seeing how communities rally around such figures inspires me to be more thoughtful with my ballots. For instance, if a player is contributing off the court, like through military service or charity work, I tend to lean toward supporting them—it adds a layer of meaning to the game.

From a practical standpoint, the voting system is designed to be fair, with 50% of the weight coming from fan votes, 25% from current players, and 25% from a media panel. This blend ensures that while fan enthusiasm drives the selections, there's a balance with professional insight. I've noticed that in recent years, this has led to some surprises—like in 2019, when Derrick Rose made a comeback as an All-Star thanks to a massive fan push, despite not being a starter for much of the season. It's moments like these that highlight the power we hold as voters. On the flip side, I sometimes worry about bias creeping in, like when star players from big-market teams get an edge, but overall, the system does a decent job of recognizing talent. If you're new to this, my advice is to research player stats; for example, LeBron was averaging around 25 points and 10 assists per game leading into the voting period, which solidified my choice to back him.

As we approach the final days of voting, the excitement builds, and I often find myself checking the leaderboards daily. The NBA releases updates every week, so you can track how your favorites are doing and adjust your strategy if needed. Last year, I switched a vote to Luka Dončić after seeing his incredible rookie season, and it paid off—he ended up starting, which was a thrill for fans like me who appreciate rising talent. This year, with the game set for February 16th, 2020, at the United Center in Chicago, I'm already picturing the dunk contests and three-point shootouts. But beyond the glamour, the All-Star weekend is a celebration of basketball's global family, and your vote is a key part of that. So, grab your phone, head to the NBA site, and let's make sure the 2020 roster reflects the best of the best—because, in the end, it's our shared passion that makes this sport unforgettable.