Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant didn’t hold back when reacting to the NBA’s new All-Star Game format. Just minutes after the announcement, Durant labeled the changes as “terrible,” expressing strong disapproval of the revamped structure.
A Fresh Take on the NBA All-Star Game
Starting with the 2025 All-Star Game, scheduled for February 16 at San Francisco’s Chase Center, the NBA will introduce a knockout-style tournament. Here’s how it works:
- Four Teams of Eight Players:
Three teams will feature the 24 All-Stars chosen for the game. A fourth team will consist of the winners of the Rising Stars tournament, a showcase for rookies, sophomores, and G-League standouts. - First-to-Forty Format:
Teams will compete in semifinals, with the first team to score 40 points advancing to the championship game. - General Managers with Star Power:
TNT analysts Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith will serve as GMs for the All-Star teams, drafting players in a live format. Candace Parker will manage the Rising Stars team.
Fans can still vote for their favorite players starting December 19, preserving a core element of the All-Star Game tradition.
Kevin Durant’s Reaction
Durant, a 14-time All-Star, was blunt in his criticism:
“I hate it. I absolutely hate it. I think it will be terrible.”
The former MVP added that he preferred the traditional Eastern Conference vs. Western Conference format, briefly revived in 2024.
However, Durant acknowledged that the new system could surprise him:
“We’ll see how this one works. You never know—I might be wrong. I’m just another guy with another opinion, but we’ll see how it works.”
Looking Back and Moving Forward
The 2024 All-Star Game was historic, with the Eastern Conference defeating the West 211-186, marking their first win since 2014. It also became the first All-Star Game where a team surpassed 200 points.
As the league continues to innovate, all eyes are on the 2025 All-Star Game to see if this bold experiment pays off.
Mark Your Calendar:
- Event: 2025 NBA All-Star Game
- Date: Sunday, February 16, 2025
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- Location: Chase Center, San Francisco, CA
Stay tuned for updates on the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend, and let us know your thoughts on the new format in the comments below!
Source: CNN Sports
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