As I watched the NBA All-Star game with my dad we couldn’t help but notice how…what’s the word…pathetic the game was. After the first five minutes of the game, players resort to pulling up for long range 3’s. Now I understand these players don’t want to hurt themselves, but come on guys. There is something to be said about the level of competitiveness when the West almost broke the 200 point mark.
There are certain times throughout the game where it makes to sense to put in little effort. One of the most entertaining parts was when Giannis Antetokounmpo got loose for a break away. Steph Curry was the only man back, and instead of contesting he laid down and put his hands over his head. That’s one of the things that makes Steph a fan favorite. He genuinely seems like he is enjoying himself out there. Moments like Giannis’ high flying athleticism were few and far between unfortunately.
After the first half, the most well known players spent most of their time on the bench. Lebron, Giannis, Cousins, and Kawhi Leonard all sat out the fourth quarter. Kawhi didn’t even play after the first quarter. How is the league supposed to entertain the masses when they put out their second best all-stars? Of course there is no easy answer. These players have been putting in work throughout the season and this is supposed to be their vacation. I don’t blame them.
One of the most interesting things to see was the old school footage they showed about Wilt Chamberlain’s All-Star game. In black and white, these guys were actually playing! There was no flash and all substance. They wanted to win, hands down. That was the most shocking thing to see and something I want to see come back to the game. To watch the best players battle it out with an actual competitiveness is what the public wants to see. Let’s bring it back.
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