After changing the NBA All-Star Game format once again this season, fans were entertained by the change. But the weekend could still use some spice.
While it was enjoyable to see Damian Lillard win the 3-point contest and Keshad Johnson had some cool moments during the dunk contest, the overall interest in NBA All-Star Weekend could still use an injection of life. After moving away from the skills contest, they could have some fascinating plans to expand Saturday night of All-Star Weekend.
Advertisement
One idea, perhaps the most exciting, is a one-on-one tournament like women’s basketball players have tried in the Unrivaled league.
More: Unrivaled’s 1-on-1 tournament returns with playground feel, high stakes
Here is more from Michael McCarthy (via FOS):
“NBC Sports executive producer Sam Flood told Front Office Sports that the network is already making pitches to improve the Saturday festivities, which suffered from yet another lackluster Slam Dunk Contest after the 3-Point Contest and Shooting Stars competition. Potential options include the addition of a fourth event, such as a 1-on-1 or 2-on-2 tournament.”
If you want to see players try hard, make them compete by themselves and show they can beat other stars around the league.
No one wants to get embarrassed in a ones run and the competitive edge is almost certainly going to shine through.
Advertisement
Plus, it could have some unexpected winners because this format is so different than a five-on-five game. What if Payton Pritchard emerged victorious over Victor Wembanyama despite nearly a foot and a half height difference?
This article originally appeared on For The Win: NBA All-Star Weekend could wisely add a 1-on-1 tournament next season