It was a proud evening for Israel with our very own Deni Avdija making history as the first Israeli to play in the NBA All-Star Game.
And he did it in style, replete with an Israeli flag on his jersey:
Deni Avdija, NBA All-Star pic.twitter.com/FEJ14RmoLs
— Eli Kowaz – איליי קואז (@elikowaz) February 15, 2026
Deni Avdija, ladies and gentlemen. 🇮🇱
— Vivid.🇮🇱 (@VividProwess) February 16, 2026
First Israeli to become an NBA All-Star.
pic.twitter.com/iLcVQrXfl5
Nothing could take away from this historic moment. But there was at least one person in the building who tried: American filmmaker Spike Lee, who clowned it up with this ensemble:
It is bad enough he wore this “palestinian” get-up at all in public, but one could assume he wore it deliberately knowing about Deni Avdija’s involvement in the game.
For those who think I am being uncharitable towards Spike Lee, you may have forgotten – or not be aware – of his problematic history towards the Jewish people. Allow me to recap.
In the film Mo’ Better Blues (1990), two nightclub owners – portrayed as exploitative and greedy – were widely interpreted as invoking negative Jewish stereotypes.
In 2006, Lee defended his depiction saying
“In the history of American music, there have not been Jewish people exploiting black musicians?” In the history of music? How is that being stereotypical?”
Then in 2021, Lee’s HBO documentary series New York Epicenters: 9/11-2021½ prominently featured a conspiracy theorist who has entertained antisemitic ideas, forcing a re-edit.
There has been suggestions Lee had improved his depiction of Jews in his movies over time, but this latest vile act should put any suggestions of his supposed moderation to rest.
Spike Lee’s decision to use the NBA All-Star stage – a night meant for global unity and athletic celebration – to flaunt such a divisive and pointed ensemble is a loud and clear message. By choosing this specific moment, coinciding with Deni Avdija’s historic debut, Lee didn’t just make a fashion statement; he made a political one designed to overshadow a milestone for the Jewish state.
Whether through the tired tropes of his early films or his recent flirtations with conspiracy theorists, Lee has shown a consistent pattern of behavior. This latest stunt is simply the next chapter in that history.
