“Insult and a disgrace!” Stephen A. Smith gives his bold verdict on the new All-Star game format

Analyst Stephen A Smith lashed out at the new All-Star game format proposed by the NBA for the 2024-25 season.

“Insult and a disgrace!” Stephen A. Smith gives his bold verdict on the new All-Star game format

Stephen A Smith lashes out at new All Star game format

The NBA’s decision to implement a new All-Star Game format for the 2024-25 season has not gone unnoticed, with prominent figures weighing in on the changes. Among them is Stephen A. Smith, who did not mince words in his criticism.

The ESPN analyst, known for his outspoken views, called out the new format developed by the NBA. Smith expressed his frustration, lamenting what he perceives as a deviation from the tradition and legacy of the All-Star Game. His remarks were a response to the growing discourse surrounding the All-Star Game, particularly the lackluster effort and engagement displayed by players in recent years.

I hate it. It’s a complete waste of time… I think, it’s an insult and it’s a disgrace to pioneers who have helped elevate the NBA product to what it is… it’s a blemish on NBA players. I personally have no interest in even being there.

Stephen A. Smith said

Stephen A Smith has previously been highly critical of the current state of affairs for the NBA All-Star game. He has especially been dismayed by the lack of intensity that has come to define recent All-Star Games.

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The present state of the All-Star game was especially under fire last season when the Eastern Conference All-Stars defeated the Western Conference in a 211-186 blowout victory. The game was the highest-scoring All-Star game of all time, drawing criticism from the likes of Smith and others across the NBA for a watered-down ‘three-point’ contest instead of a standout exhibition game.

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How will the New All-Star format work?

The NBA has replaced its conference-based format with a unique four-team tournament system. According to reports by Shams Charania, three teams of eight All-Stars will join a fourth team—the winner of the Rising Stars Challenge.

The tournament will feature two semifinal games played up to 40 points, with the winners advancing to a final match played up to 25 points. This quick-burst competition aims to bring a “pickup basketball” vibe to the game.

It was developed in accordance with stars from across the league, with the Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry playing a major role in the ideation for the new format. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver had previously spoken about the state of affairs for the All-Star game, drawing the revised format for the game.

There’s no doubt that the players were disappointed as well in last year’s All-Star Game. We all want to do a better job providing competition and entertainment for our fans.

Adam Silver told media
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The 2024-25 All-Star Weekend will be held at Chase Center in San Francisco, the home of the Golden State Warriors. While some fans and players are optimistic about the new format, others, like Smith, believe it’s a step in the wrong direction.