The Big Number: Previewing the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend
On this episode of "The Big Number," Tom Haberstroh and Dan Devine delve into the excitement and anticipation surrounding the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend. The event, which will be hosted by the Golden State Warriors in their home arena, promises to be a spectacle filled with dazzling performances and intense competition. With just a few months to go, the duo sets the stage by highlighting the key players who could emerge as MVP candidates. The number of the day, 15, signifies the number of All-Star MVP awards that have been handed out over the past decade, emphasizing the significance and unpredictability of this prestigious title.
Steph Curry: The Hometown Hero
Steph Curry, the Warriors’ superstar and the face of the franchise, is a prime candidate for the All-Star MVP award. Playing in his hometown of San Francisco, the crowd’s support could be a decisive factor. Curry’s recent form, marked by his trademark three-point shooting and on-court wizardry, suggests that he is more than capable of delivering a standout performance. The idea of Curry donning his home jersey and putting on a show for the local fans adds an extra layer of drama and emotional appeal. Tom and Dan discuss how Curry’s unique blend of skill and crowd magnetism could make him a frontrunner for the MVP title.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Rising Star
Another player who could make a strong case for the All-Star MVP is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Known for his versatile playmaking and clutch performances, Gilgeous-Alexander has emerged as one of the league’s most exciting young talents. His ability to score from various positions and his growing leadership on and off the court make him a formidable contender. Tom and Dan explore his recent stats and highlight his potential to shine during the All-Star weekend, possibly marking another milestone in his rapidly ascending career.
Damian Lillard: The Back-to-Back Threat
Damian Lillard, the Portland Trail Blazers’ floor general, is no stranger to the All-Star stage. Having won the MVP award in 2024, Lillard is well-positioned to become the first player since Shaquille O’Neal to win back-to-back MVP honors. Lillard’s fearless approach and unparalleled scoring ability have made him a crowd favorite, and his consistency over the past few seasons is a testament to his skill. The co-hosts discuss Lillard’s potential to replicate his 2024 performance and why his determination and talent might just see him win another MVP crown.
Anthony Edwards: The Star of the Future
Anthony Edwards, the young phenom from the Minnesota Timberwolves, is another player who could steal the spotlight at the All-Star Weekend. Edwards has been making waves with his explosive athleticism and scoring prowess, quickly becoming one of the most exciting players to watch in the league. His growth both in terms of skill and maturity is evident, and the co-hosts consider the likelihood of Edwards delivering a breakout performance. They weigh his potential against the seasoned veterans and discuss how his dynamic playstyle could captivate the audience.
LeBron James: A New Spark with Luka Doncic
LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers’ veteran forward, has found a new lease on life thanks to the addition of Luka Doncic to the team. The chemistry between James and Doncic has been nothing short of spectacular, rejuvenating James’s game and making the Lakers a formidable force. Tom and Dan analyze how this partnership could impact James’s performance at the All-Star Weekend and why he might be a dark horse for the MVP award. James’s enduring talent and recent resurgence make him a player to watch, and the co-hosts speculate on how he could use this opportunity to further cement his legacy.
Victor Wembanyama: The Olympic Rebound
Victor Wembanyama, the French sensation, is a name that has been generating buzz for his phenomenal play both in the NBA and on the international stage. While the 2025 All-Star Weekend will be his rookie season, Wembanyama’s impressive performances have already earned him a place among the league’s elite. Tom and Dan consider the intriguing scenario where Wembanyama takes revenge on Steph Curry, who led Team USA to victory over France in the Olympics. They discuss how this young talent could use the All-Star stage to announce himself to the world and potentially steal the MVP award right under Curry’s nose, adding a layer of rivalry and excitement to the event.
Over/Unders Update and the Future of Cooper Flagg
In addition to previewing the All-Star MVP candidates, Tom and Dan update their ongoing over/unders competition, a friendly bet where they predict various NBA statistics and outcomes. They review their current standings and discuss the accuracy of their predictions so far. The conversation then shifts to the hottest draft prospect in the country, Cooper Flagg. Flagg’s college performances have been nothing short of spectacular, and the co-hosts delve into which teams are in the best position to draft him. They also explore how certain franchises could become even more formidable if they manage to "capture the Flagg," adding another dimension to the draft’s excitement and potential impact on the league.
Conclusion: The 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend in Focus
The 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco is shaping up to be a memorable event, with a plethora of talented players vying for the MVP award. From the hometown hero, Steph Curry, to the rising stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Anthony Edwards, to the seasoned veterans like LeBron James and the young French sensation, Victor Wembanyama, the stage is set for a gripping competition. Tom and Dan’s insightful analysis and engaging banter add an extra layer of anticipation, making fans eagerly look forward to what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of basketball. The inclusion of Cooper Flagg’s draft prospects further underscores the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the NBA, ensuring that the league remains a source of endless excitement and potential for the future.
