Darko Rajaković to Lead World Team at NBA All-Star Game

The NBA has officially named Darko Rajaković, head coach of the Toronto Raptors, as the coach for the international team at the upcoming All-Star Game on February 15, 2024. This appointment marks a significant moment for the league as it embraces a new format featuring a U.S. versus World matchup, enhancing the global appeal of the event.

Rajaković, who hails from Serbia and leads the only NBA franchise that plays its home games outside the United States, will step into the All-Star coaching role for the first time. Under his leadership, the Raptors currently hold a record of 30-21, positioning them for their best season since they finished with a 53-19 record during the COVID-shortened 2019-20 season when they were crowned champions. This season, the Raptors have already matched last year’s total wins and are on track for their first playoff appearance since 2022.

Coaching and Team Selection

Rajaković’s extensive background in international basketball began when he started coaching at the age of 16 in Serbia. His career has taken him through various roles, including coaching in Spain and serving as a European consultant for the San Antonio Spurs for nearly a decade before transitioning to the U.S. in 2012. He also contributed to Serbia’s national team as a staff member during the 2019 Basketball World Cup.

At this year’s All-Star event, Rajaković will join fellow coaches J.B. Bickerstaff of the Detroit Pistons and Mitch Johnson of the San Antonio Spurs. Bickerstaff was selected due to the Pistons’ current best record in the Eastern Conference, while Johnson earned his place as the Spurs secured the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference at the cutoff date. Notably, Mark Daigneault of the Oklahoma City Thunder was ineligible this year as he coached during last season’s All-Star Game.

Raptors’ Participation in All-Star Weekend

Rajaković is not the only member of the Raptors organization participating in this year’s All-Star festivities. Scottie Barnes will compete in the All-Star Game, while Collin Murray-Boyles and Alijah Martin are set to take part in the Rising Stars event.

Previously, Rajaković was part of the 2014 All-Star weekend as an assistant coach on Scott Brooks‘ staff with the Oklahoma City Thunder. His appointment highlights the NBA’s commitment to showcasing international talent and perspectives, further enriching the All-Star experience for fans around the world.

With the announcement of player selections expected on the same day, the anticipation for the All-Star Game continues to build, promising an exciting showcase of elite basketball talent on a global stage.