LeBron James will miss Sunday night's All-Star Game due to health concerns

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will miss Sunday night's All-Star Game, The Associated Press' Tim Reynolds reports.

James told reporters he decided to sit out the game due to ongoing discomfort in his ankle and foot.

James, who turned 40, originally planned to participate in his 21st All-Star Game.

James has remained mostly healthy this season, playing in 48 of the 52 games before the All-Star break, although he has been bothered by a foot injury.

Although James' absence will be disappointing to fans, the veteran ultimately decided it was best to rest for his health rather than risk further injury to his ankle or foot.

James said, "When facing injuries, I have to think more about myself."

According to the Los Angeles Times, James expressed his hope to return in Wednesday's game against the Charlotte Hornets.

James' 21 All-Star selections are the most in NBA history, surpassing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar two years ago. He has been selected to the All-Star Game every year since 2005.

James, a three-time All-Star Game MVP, had a chance to make history on Sunday by winning the award for a fourth time, a feat only accomplished by Kobe Bryant and Bob Pettit, but now he will have to wait until next season to claim the honor -- if he makes another All-Star Game.