The NBA made a bold attempt to rejuvenate its All-Star Game this year, introducing a fresh format designed to increase competition and fan engagement. Instead of the traditional 48-minute contest, players were split into four teams — three selected by TNT analysts Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith, with the fourth consisting of young Rising Stars who advanced through Friday’s event.
The revamped game produced some improvements, with more defensive intensity and a lower shooting percentage than last year’s 211-186 shootout. Stephen Curry, whose team won the final and earned him MVP honors, welcomed the changes but acknowledged that the league still has work to do.
“I think it was a good step in the right direction to reinvigorate the game in some way,” Curry said. “You tinker with it again next year and see what changes you can make. It’s not going to look like it used to. But it still can be fun for everybody.”
Not all players were thrilled with the adjustments. Jayson Tatum questioned the inclusion of Rising Stars, arguing that being named an NBA All-Star should remain an exclusive honor.
“It’s kind of a big deal to be an All-Star and play Sunday night,” Tatum said. “Some guys get snubbed, and other guys work really, really hard to make it. Playing on Sunday night is special.”
Other players, including Trae Young, were frustrated by frequent stoppages for entertainment segments, including banter from Kevin Hart and a 20-minute TNT retrospective.
“To be honest, I didn’t like it at all,” Young said. “I didn’t like the breaks. The games were so short.”
The NBA will likely tweak the format again next year, but for now, opinions remain divided on its success. Full rosters for the games can be found here.
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