I do realize the complaint box is probably overflowing in NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s office who himself sounded dissatisfied with the actual game between the All-Star players.
I think where my suggestions may differ from other critics is that it revolves around the whole weekend, not just the game. Plus, it’s just not directed toward the NBA, but also toward the promoters and organizers of the events surrounding the games.
First, let’s start with the location. The league needs to stop allowing cold-weather cities to host All-Star Weekend. I do understand that it’s a business and the NBA has to be inclusive and allow all NBA cities to get a share of the revenue that is generated from the annual event.
However, going to a place like Indiana in the winter is not a good idea. It’s snowing, cold and not a pleasant place to be in those conditions.
Keep in mind, that I was born and raised in Chicago, so I’m used to harsh winters. I think that’s what qualifies me to tell you that almost no one enjoys being in the cold, especially when you are trying to have a good time.
The next thing is the parties and the various activities that go on throughout the weekend. I think they should be more cohesive and more organized. I do understand different promoters have events in various parts of the city.
With that said, I understand it can be difficult for those people to correspond with each other. I’m not saying they have to work together, but I do think there should be an overall itinerary presented to people who come to the city looking for things to do.
Maybe the NBA could work with some local promoters to help advertise their events, although, I think that is far-fetched because the NBA promotes its parties and events that involve celebrities as well.
Now, let’s get to the competition. The HBCU games are a good idea. It’s Black History Month and highlighting historically Black colleges and universities is a good way to showcase an element that is important to our community.
Not to mention, it gives those athletes who participate in those games to get some well-deserved publicity that is usually not given to them.
I don’t watch the celebrity basketball game, but I have no problem with it. It’s terrible to watch, but for the fans who attend the game, I can understand how they would enjoy it.
Next up is the Skills Competition. I’m going to get straight to the point with this one: it’s horrible! It’s boring, and they are constantly changing the format, which makes it confusing.
Either simplify it, and put some players that will make it competitive and exciting, or get rid of it altogether.
In regards to the Slam Dunk contest, I would defer to ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith who had a good idea on how to improve the competition.
The 3-Point Shootout is good the way it is. It is by far the best event that takes place throughout the weekend.
On the other hand, the actual All-Star Game is something different. Over the years, the decline has been so steep, that I think they should cancel the game.
The lack of defense, and the lack of effort is so horrible that it has me wondering why the players even show up at all. There have been many ideas on how to improve the game, but I’m not sure what will work.
I think it will take a few players or one special player to encourage and motivate his peers to level up their efforts for the game.
Other than that, I think the game will not improve. In the end, if you a fan of the NBA, like I am, you probably will enjoy the experience if you decide to go to an All-Star Weekend one year. Especially if you spend your money, but if they make these improvements, your experience will be that much better.