The 2025 NBA All-Star Game in San Francisco faced widespread criticism for its lack of competitiveness and frequent interruptions. Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic addressed the ongoing concerns, suggesting the league should shift its focus elsewhere rather than trying to fix the exhibition event.
Speaking to The Denver Post’s Bennett Durando, Jokic admitted he did not have a solution for improving the game. “I don’t know,” he said. “I think it’s not a question for me. I don’t know. I think maybe we should focus on some other things than All-Star. I think it’s always going to be like this, so we should accept it.”
The revamped All-Star format featured a three-team mini-tournament, culminating in Team Shaq defeating Team Chuck 41-25 in the final. Stephen Curry was named MVP after scoring exclusively from beyond the arc.
Despite the new format, the event was marred by constant stoppages, including a widely criticized decision to pause the championship game 12 points in to present the TNT crew with parting gifts. The frequent interruptions drained the energy from the game, leaving fans and players frustrated.
Draymond Green openly criticized the changes, calling the format “ridiculous” and rating it a “zero” that “sucks.” Comedian Kevin Hart also weighed in, echoing the disappointment shared by many viewers.
The games only lasted 42 minutes out of a three-hour broadcast, further emphasizing the focus on entertainment segments over actual competition. The lack of intensity, coupled with limited participation in events like the dunk contest, led to another underwhelming All-Star weekend.
