NBA All-Star Weekend 2025: New Format Faces Criticism Despite Highlights

Stephen Curry shines in his hometown, but fans and players express mixed feelings about the revamped event format and its execution.

Stephen Curry was named All-Star MVP after leading Team Shaq's OGs to victory in the new four-team tournament format, earning widespread praise for his performance in San Francisco.
The new All-Star format, featuring three shorter games with a winners-advance structure, received mixed reviews, with some players and fans criticizing the excessive non-basketball interruptions and lack of competitive intensity.
Victor Wembanyama impressed in his All-Star debut with his energy and effort but called out the lack of seriousness from some players, emphasizing the need for more competitive play.
LeBron James faced backlash for announcing his withdrawal due to injury just an hour before the game, with critics arguing it deprived another player of an opportunity to participate.
Mac McClung won his third consecutive dunk contest, delivering a standout performance that energized the crowd and sparked renewed interest in future star participation in the event.