The NBA All-Star Game has lost its shine. What was once a competitive and unforgettable spectacle now feels more like a selfie runway than a true clash of the world’s best. That’s how Carmelo Anthony sees it, and from his new role as an NBA on NBC commentator, he’s on a mission to reignite that lost fire.
During his appearance on the 7 PM in Brooklyn podcast, the former player spoke candidly with Jermaine Dupri and Rudy Gay, pointing out that the Slam Dunk Contest no longer thrills fans like it used to. The reason? A lack of commitment from the league’s biggest stars. Melo dreams of seeing Ja Morant, Anthony Edwards, Zion Williamson, and the league’s most explosive rookies stepping into the spotlight with pride-not for money.
Can Cooper Flagg spark the flame?
Although Carmelo acknowledges the talent of Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, he’s clear that star power alone isn’t enough. “Put Flagg in the Skills Challenge. But for the Dunk Contest, I want VJ Edgecombe,” he said. And he didn’t hold back: Edgecombe, the Baylor standout, brings pure showmanship, explosiveness, and creativity-exactly what the event needs.
According to Carmelo, the key ingredient is passion. It’s not about cash prizes or bonuses. “Give the winner a Lamborghini, a Bentley… but if there’s no pride, it doesn’t matter.” For Anthony, it’s not the teams killing the Dunk Contest-it’s the players’ own apathy.
LeBron, Curry, and Durant say goodbye
The looming retirements of legends like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant leave a massive void. The NBA is in desperate need of fresh faces-players who can not only dominate on the court but also reconnect with the heart of the game. That includes bringing excitement back to All-Star Weekend.
Ja, Edwards, Zion… they all have the talent, presence, and charisma. Now it’s time for them to take that leap-literally and figuratively-and embrace the legacy. “If you guys don’t do it, no one else will,” warns Carmelo, making it clear that the show lives or dies based on the players’ desire.
The future of the All-Star Game rests on new talent
This new generation has the power to change the game’s course. But the message is clear: it’s not about trophies or likes-it’s about love for basketball. “The fans won’t forgive,” said Jermaine Dupri. “If they don’t feel the passion, they’ll just stop watching.”
And that’s the real wake-up call: without passion, the All-Star Game will cease to matter. It’s time to take flight-not just toward the rim, but for the future of the game.
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