
Stephen A. Smith has expressed strong disapproval of the current state of the NBA All-Star Game, particularly following Caitlin Clark’s decision to decline an invitation to participate in the 3-Point Contest. On ESPN’s First Take, Smith elaborated on his frustration, emphasizing how the move highlights a broader issue with the All-Star Weekend’s current format. He criticized NBA players for appearing uninterested in the event, which he believes has significantly lost its appeal. “The reason the WNBA is so appreciated,” Smith stated, “is because the players care about the fans, unlike the NBA, who seem to give their audience the ‘middle finger.’” For Smith, this situation represents a “travesty” for the sport.
Clark’s decision not to compete stems from her focus on the 2025 WNBA All-Star game, which will be hosted in Indianapolis, where her team, the Indiana Fever, plays. Additionally, Clark is expected to be a key player for the WNBA All-Star team, assuming she stays healthy. While her reasoning is understandable, it has raised concerns, particularly in light of the NBA’s recent rule changes to the All-Star game and the decline in participation in traditional events like the Slam Dunk and 3-Point contests. The absence of Clark, a rising star, has intensified questions about the future of the NBA’s All-Star festivities.
Stephen A. Smith isn’t the only one voicing dissatisfaction with the All-Star Weekend’s direction. Both LeBron James and Kevin Durant have made similar critiques, with Durant calling the event’s format “terrible.” The shift in tone is evident, as the All-Star Game now feels more like an exhibition than a showcase of the league’s best talent. This lack of intensity has been a growing concern, especially since the 2019-20 season when the game’s format was altered to honor Kobe Bryant, which changed the competitive atmosphere significantly.
Though the weekend still carries prestige, many feel the essence of what made the All-Star Game special is fading. Smith’s critique highlights the wider issue of diminishing competitiveness, which is evident in the reluctance of NBA players to participate in the contest’s classic events. The impact of this shift is particularly noticeable when you compare it to the rising visibility and interest in the WNBA, with players like Sabrina Ionescu actively engaging in events like the 3-Point Contest.
For now, it remains unclear whether the NBA will be able to address these concerns and rejuvenate the All-Star experience. Until then, the decision of young stars like Caitlin Clark to decline participation serves as a stark reminder of the challenges the league faces in maintaining its All-Star weekend’s allure and competitiveness. With the growing attention on the WNBA, it’s clear that change is needed to restore the event’s former glory.