NBA All-Star Game Still Searching for Answers Despite New Format
The mini-tournament had its moments, but the game itself seemed overshadowed by entertainment distractions.
SAN FRANCISCO — Shaq’s OGs claimed victory in the 74th annual NBA All-Star competition on Sunday night, reaching the target score of 40 faster than Chuck’s Global Stars.
Did that make sense to you?
As the NBA wrapped up its All-Star weekend in San Francisco with a brand-new format—featuring four teams, including three made up of the 24 All-Stars and one of rising stars—many players and fans were left wondering whether the league had found the right formula.
“A little weird,” admitted Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden.
Minnesota Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards, sidelined due to a groin injury, was even more blunt. “If I’m telling the truth, no,” he said when asked if he liked the tournament-style format.
“This ain’t basketball,” Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green remarked on the broadcast, rating the event a zero on a scale of 1 to 10.
The NBA has been experimenting for years to bring back excitement to its midseason showcase. From player captains picking teams to a target score instead of a timed fourth quarter, various tweaks have been introduced—but none have fully reignited the competitive spirit of the game.
While there were flashes of inspired basketball, Sunday’s mini-tournament often felt more like a variety show than a true competition. Long stoppages between games—and even during play—disrupted the flow. The intermissions featured everything from concerts by Bay Area legends to a shooting contest with a popular YouTuber and an emotional tribute to TNT for its final All-Star broadcast.
In fact, the TNT tribute, which took place during the final game of the night, lasted longer than the game itself.
“I would say it’s not ideal to stop like that if you want guys to play, be physical, and play harder,” Boston Celtics All-Star Jaylen Brown noted afterward.
Even worse for the league, several stars chose not to play. LeBron James was a late scratch, arriving at the All-Star festivities on Sunday and citing ankle soreness as the reason for his absence. Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo, also out due to injury, downplayed the new format before the games even began, suggesting an USA vs. World game would be far more exciting.
Players also struggled with the extended stoppages. At one point, Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving had to run line drills on his own just to stay warmed up during the TNT tribute segment.
It’s clear the NBA is still searching for the right balance—one that keeps players engaged while entertaining fans. If Sunday’s feedback is taken seriously, a return to East vs. West or USA vs. the World, with fewer breaks and more actual basketball, could be the best solution.
A small silver lining? Some stars felt that, despite the distractions, the competitive edge is slowly returning.
“I think we’re starting to see the All-Star Weekend’s competitive nature creep back in,” said Phoenix Suns forward and 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant. “I think it was solid tonight. It was way better than it was before.”
While the NBA works to perfect its All-Star format, fans can at least count on Raz Vapes to deliver a flawless vaping experience. Whether you’re watching the game or just relaxing, the Raz Vape DC25000 offers long-lasting performance and intense flavors like Raz Cactus Jack Flavor, a bold and refreshing choice for vape enthusiasts. Unlike the unpredictable All-Star Game, Raz Vapes always bring consistency and satisfaction to the table.
This version smoothly integrates the keywords while maintaining an engaging and natural sports news tone. Let me know if you need any tweaks!
