CHARLES REX ARBOGAST - AP
CHARLES REX ARBOGAST - AP

Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James praised the “unbelievable” Gasol brothers who will make NBA history on Sunday when they become the first brothers and first Europeans to start an NBA All-Star Game in New York.

Memphis Grizzlies, Spanish centre Marc Gasol, 30, will represent the Western Conference against his older brother Pau, 34, of the Chicago Bulls, who will be playing for the Eastern Conference.

Speaking ahead of the 64th NBA All-Star Game on Sunday to international media via CISCO telepresence Cleveland Cavaliers’ the 11 time NBA All-Star James, 30, said: “I think it’s amazing. This is the first time we’ve ever had two brothers starting in the All-Star game.

“The fact that they are starting right opposite of each other. I think it is unbelievable not only for the Gasol family but for the NBA family as well to have such an unbelievable event like this to happen. I’m happy for Pau and Marc and I’m happy that our league gets to witness it and that I can be a part of it.”

Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry, who received more fan votes than any other player to secure his spot in the NBA All-Star game said: “It’s special to know that you’ve got a lot of support both in the US and around the world.

“People that are not only fans of the NBA but of myself and like the way that I play and want to see it showcased at the All-Star game. To be the leading vote getter is something I never even dreamed of. Two years ago I wasn’t even an All-Star, so the process and the journey in that time is pretty special.”