Draymond Green’s All-Star Conundrum
Change is inevitable, but not all change is good—especially in the world of professional sports. Just ask Draymond Green, a stalwart of the NBA and a vocal figure both on and off the court. With the 2025 NBA All-Star Game taking place in San Francisco, Green found himself back at the TNT desk, where he often uses his platform to voice his opinions. This year, however, his comments were particularly pointed, targeting the new mini-tournament format that the NBA has introduced. Green, known for his candid and often critical takes, was blunt in his assessment, giving the format a resounding "0" on a scale of 1 to 10.
The New Format: A Break from Tradition
The new format includes three teams of NBA All-Stars and a fourth team of the NBA’s Rising Stars, a change that has left many, including Green, feeling disgruntled. "You work all year to be an All-Star, and you get to play up to 40 and then you’re done? This is so unfair to Victor Wembanyama, who just took this game really seriously, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who just took this game really seriously. … C’mon, what are we doing? This is ridiculous," Green passionately argued. His frustration is palpable, highlighting the disconnect between the traditional 48-minute All-Star Game and the new, condensed format. Green believes that the hard work and dedication required to earn an All-Star nod should be rewarded with a full game, not a truncated version.
A Diversion from History
Green’s biggest complaint is the inclusion of the Rising Stars, which he sees as a significant diversion from the All-Star Game’s historical significance. "This is the All-Star Game, not a developmental league showcase," he emphasized. He likened Shaquille O’Neal’s "Shaq’s OGs" team to an Olympic team, while the Rising Stars are akin to an Under-19 junior national team. This comparison underscores his belief that the All-Star Game should be a celebration of the league’s elite, not a platform for up-and-comers. Green’s argument is rooted in the idea that the All-Star Game is not just a game but a legacy, one that should honor the achievements of those who have earned their place on the court.
The Impact on Records and Legacy
Green’s stance is further fueled by his concern for the integrity of the All-Star Game’s legacy. He believes that the new format detracts from the significance of records set during the traditional 48-minute game. "I had to work so hard to play on Sunday night of All-Star Weekend, and, because ratings are down & the game is bad, we’re bringing in Rising Stars. That’s not a fix," he said pregame. Green’s dedication to the game is evident in his frustration. The All-Star Game was, and should remain, a pinnacle of achievement for the league’s best players, a stage where they can showcase their talents and potentially set new records. By altering the format, the NBA risks diminishing the accomplishments of past All-Stars and the players who strive to follow in their footsteps.
A Continuation of Criticism
Green’s criticism of the new format is not a one-time rant. Throughout the weekend, he has repeatedly expressed his dissatisfaction. "I didn’t play in the Rising Stars game, and these guys get to touch the All-Star game?… those guys did not make the All-Star game. To be playing in the All-Star game [when] you didn’t make the All-Star team is absurd," he iterated. His consistent message highlights the depth of his concern and the respect he has for the game’s traditions. Despite the Rising Stars’ valiant effort in the mini-tournament, Green remained firm in his stance, arguing that they "never belonged on that [All-Star] court."
A Call for Reflection
The NBA’s decision to introduce the mini-tournament was likely influenced by the need to boost ratings and viewer engagement. However, Green’s comments serve as a reminder that tradition and respect for the game’s history should not be overlooked. After last year’s All-Star Game, which saw the winning team set an All-Star record with 211 points, it’s clear that the traditional format still has the potential to captivate audiences. If the NBA listens to voices like Green’s, it may reconsider the direction of the All-Star Game, ensuring that future editions continue to honor the players who have earned their place on the biggest stage in basketball.
