NBA All-Star Weekend: Giving the People What They Want
NBA All-Star Weekend is designed to entertain and delight fans, and this year’s event in Oakland is no exception. The weekend is a celebration of the best talent in the league, and it’s a chance for fans to witness their favorite players showcase their skills in a more relaxed and fun environment. However, it’s not all sunshine and roses; the event also faces its fair share of scrutiny and drama. In the Bay Area, where basketball legend Stephen Curry still holds a special place in the hearts of the locals, the demand for "Curry moments" is high, and he did not disappoint during the All-Star 2025 practice at Oracle Arena on Saturday. The practice session was a blend of nostalgia and excitement, with Curry’s presence drawing the most attention and applause from the enthusiastic crowd.
Kyrie Irving: Managing the Public Eye
Kyrie Irving, the enigmatic point guard of the Dallas Mavericks, faced significant public backlash following the controversial trade of Luka Doncic. When asked about dealing with the drama and fan reaction, Irving displayed a mature and reflective attitude. “I mean, it’s part of our business. I wouldn’t necessarily call it noise. You know, this is what drives the engine of our business,” he said. “And you know, it’s the other side of our responsibility as artists or as athletes is being engaging. Sometimes when you’re dealing with things in the public eye, it’s not always going to be received the right way, or positively, by everybody, which is perfectly healthy and normal. But for me, it’s just maintaining my focus on the main task at hand, my missions, my goals.” Irving’s comments highlight the complex relationship between players and fans, where the public’s intense interest in trades and team dynamics can sometimes overshadow the actual games. Despite the pressure, Irving remains committed to his craft and his personal goals, using the stage of All-Star Weekend to reconnect with what brought him to the NBA in the first place.
LeBron James: A No-Show at Practice
LeBron James, one of the most iconic figures in the NBA, did not attend the All-Star practice, a decision that has become somewhat of a pattern for him. Last year, he skipped the practice in Indiana, flying in on Sunday to fulfill pregame media obligations, play in the game, and then leave town. This year, fans and media alike should expect a similar scenario in the Bay Area. James’s absence, while disappointing to some, is a testament to his disciplined approach to the All-Star Weekend. For a player of his caliber, the focus often remains on the main event—Sunday’s All-Star Game—where he can maximize his impact and enjoy the experience in a more meaningful way.
Jaren Jackson Jr.: Living a Dream
Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. is making his All-Star debut in a city that holds special significance for him. Being selected to play in the All-Star Game is a dream come true for any player, but for Jackson, it’s even more special. “Just being here, playing with and against the people I grew up idolizing, it’s a surreal experience,” he said. Jackson’s journey from a young fan to a top-tier NBA player is a testament to his dedication and hard work. Sharing the court with his childhood heroes not only validates his achievements but also serves as a reminder of the inspiration that drives him to perform at his best. His presence at the event is a heartwarming story that resonates with many fans who have followed his career closely.
Norman Powell: Seizing Opportunity
Norman Powell, a veteran guard for the Los Angeles Clippers, finds himself in a unique position this year. Currently the second favorite to win the Most Improved Player award (trailing only Cade Cunningham according to BetMGM odds), Powell attributes his success to the opportunities he has been given rather than a sudden surge in skill. “I think the most improved comes from just like the stats output, but I think opportunity has really allowed me to showcase my full game,” he explained. Powell’s career has been marked by consistent performance, but this season he has been given a larger role, allowing him to shine. He recognizes that his improved stats are a result of both his hard work and the trust placed in him by his team. If he wins the award, Powell will be the oldest player to do so since the award’s inception, making his achievement all the more remarkable.
More Curry, More Magic
The practice session was a spectacle, and no one captured the attention of the crowd more than Stephen Curry. Fans in the Bay Area have always been insatiable when it comes to Curry’s signature moments, and he delivered. Curry’s pregame warmup routine, which has become a fan favorite, was inspired by Monta Ellis, a former Warriors guard. “Monta was one of the first players I really watched and tried to emulate,” Curry said. “I loved his pregame routine, the way he challenged himself, and how he made it look effortless.” Curry’s ability to connect with his roots and pay homage to his inspirations shows the depth of his character and his appreciation for the history of the game. His warmup routine, complete with jaw-dropping shots and spins, is a testament to his skill and the joy he brings to the sport. As All-Star Weekend continues, fans can expect more of the magic that has made Curry a global icon.
