The 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend aimed to breathe new life into the classic mid-season show, offering fresh formats and unforgettable moments. With events like the NBA Dunk Contest and individual brilliance on display, the weekend earned praise for its excitement—but some changes to the All-Star Game format left fans and players divided. 

Revamped All-Star Game Format

This year, not only did the NBA All-Star Game look away from the classic East vs West matchup, but it also introduced a mini three-game tournament. Four teams, coached by NBA legends Shaquille O'Neal, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Reggie Miller, went at it in a bracketed format.

In the finals, Team Shaq defeated Team Chuck 41-25 with Stephen Curry coming through to take All-Star MVP honors in a haze of long-range bombs that left the hometown crowd delighted.

Slam Dunk Contest: McClung's Historic Three-Peat

Indeed, one of the great events at All-Star Weekend-the slam-dunk contest-witnessed Mac McClung becoming the first player to win the event three times in a row. His performance reignited interest in the contest, and many fans hope future events will attract more big-name NBA stars.

 3-Point Contest: Herro’s Hot Hand

In the 3-Point Contest, Miami Heat sharpshooter Tyler Herro stole the show. Herro posted 24 points in the final round, edging out Buddy Hield to claim the title.

With his victory, Herro—or rather, Her-roses, according to the announcer—had added to his growing reputation as a great shooter in the NBA and wrote a very fine chapter in the eventful All-Star weekend.

Absence of Key Superstars

Despite the excitement, NBA All-Star Weekend suffered from the absence of major stars:

• Not just absent for the All-Star Game, LeBron James had been out for a much-deserved rest for the first time in 20 years.

• His injury will keep Giannis Antetokounmpo from appearing, although he was originally slated to play for Team Chuck.

• Knee issues are what's keeping Joel Embiid from the big show.

Their absence affected fan engagement, as many expressed disappointment over the missing superstars.

Fans Reactions

What do you think of the new NBA All-Star Game format? Share your answers in the comment box below.

• Love it, more competition!

• It’s okay, but could be better.

• Didn’t enjoy it, too confusing.

• Not a fan, prefer the old format.

Future of the All-Star Game

From brilliant moments to those that were less than stellar, this year's All-Star Weekend had its shining and dim moments. Variety of memorable moments make for good conversation starters: Mac McClung garnering a historical NBA Dunk Contest win, Tyler Herro and his hot shooting, and Stephen Curry playing most valuable player. From mixed reactions of fans and the online world, the NBA All-Star format may see significant adjustments next year. Commissioner Adam Silver has stated that the league will analyze feedback and consider improvements for the 2026 event.

 Gear Up Like the Pros

The excitement of NBA All-Star Weekend doesn’t have to end on the court—you can bring the All-Star experience to your own game with custom All-Star '25 inspired basketball kits from C2C Sports.

Whether you're looking for high-quality custom basketball kits USA or NBA inspired basketball styles for your team, C2C Sports offers premium, performance-driven basketball apparel. Elevate your game with pro-level gear today!

*Author's Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are based on collective commentaries from online sources and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the company or its stakeholders.