The NBA All-Star Weekend is about to receive a fresh twist, with TNT’s “Inside The NBA” crew spearheading the transformation. Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Kenny Smith are stepping into the roles of temporary general managers as they gear up to handpick their respective eight-player teams for the upcoming 2025 NBA All-Star Game. This year’s format is set to be an exhilarating mini-tournament, pitting the squads crafted by O’Neal, Barkley, and Smith against each other in a battle of basketball prowess.
The anticipation is running high as two of the eight-man All-Star teams will clash in a semifinal showdown, while the remaining team will face off against the victor of the Rising Stars championship game, showcasing the budding talents of the league. Adding to the excitement, WNBA legend Candace Parker will grace the occasion as the honorary general manager of the triumphant Rising Stars team, challenging the NBA All-Stars in a head-to-head matchup.
With the 24 NBA All-Stars for 2025 already determined, the next step is to allocate them to their respective teams. The trio of O’Neal, Barkley, and Smith are all set to make their selections on Thursday evening, aiming to assemble a formidable lineup capable of clinching victory at the All-Star tournament hosted at the Chase Center.
### The All-Star Draft Begins
The draft night unfolds with a buzz of excitement as the three iconic figures in the basketball world kickstart their selections. LeBron James from the Lakers is the first pick for Team Shaq, setting the tone for the draft. As the picks continue to roll in, the stakes get higher, with seasoned veterans and rising stars alike finding their place in the lineup.
Team Kenny adds a touch of unpredictability by selecting Anthony Edwards from the Timberwolves, while Team Chuck opts for Nikola Jokic from the Nuggets as their first-round pick. The draft progresses with each team strategically choosing their players, showcasing a blend of experience, talent, and potential that promises an electrifying showdown on the court.
### NBA All-Star Weekend Schedule
As the excitement builds up for the All-Star Weekend, fans eagerly await the lineup of events set to unfold. The action-packed schedule kicks off with the All-Star Celebrity Game on Friday, followed by the thrilling Rising Stars games that showcase the emerging talent in the league. The Skills Challenge, 3-Point Contest, and Slam Dunk Contest take center stage on Saturday, leading up to the highly anticipated All-Star tournament games on Sunday.
The All-Star Weekend promises a spectacle that will captivate basketball enthusiasts worldwide, with all the action being broadcasted through Sling for fans to savor. From the NBA Legends Awards to the G League Next Up Game, the weekend is packed with events that celebrate the rich tapestry of basketball excellence.
As the countdown to the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend begins, the stage is set for a thrilling showcase of talent, skill, and passion for the game. With the draft picks locked in and the schedule laid out, basketball fans are in for a treat as they witness the best in the sport come together for a weekend of unforgettable moments on the court. Stay tuned for an experience that will redefine the essence of All-Star basketball and leave fans craving for more.
