The NBA All-Star Game is set to introduce a new format for 2025, which will emphasize the need for players to “put out more of a fight.” Last year’s event faced severe criticism as fans expressed their disappointment on social media over the players’ lack of effort. Critics in the sports media dubbed it a “disgraceful farce” and “irredeemable.” Even former President Barack Obama shared a harsh opinion, saying, “It insults the game… I ain’t watching that thing no more.”
This year, the All-Star Game will feature a fresh format with a tournament layout comprising four teams: three from the NBA All-Stars and one from the Rising Stars challenge winner. NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that the league and the National Basketball Players Association will meet with players before the game to convey the importance of competition.
Sources: The league and players union to meet together with players on Sunday prior to All-Star Game to highly stress the importance of competing for fans and for the business. #haynesbriefs
Sponsored by @Nuna_USA pic.twitter.com/Zpvetlbso4
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 14, 2025
The upcoming NBA All-Star Game, taking place at the Chase Center, will be broadcast at 8 p.m. on TNT and TruTV. The question remains: Will the message from the NBA and players union inspire greater competition this year? Will the new format make a notable impact? Or has the concept of the NBA All-Star Game become outdated, akin to the NFL Pro Bowl, which has recently struggled with similar issues of player and fan disinterest? This year’s NFL event recorded the second-lowest TV ratings in history, down 18% from 2024.
