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𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐌𝐢𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥 | 𝐙𝐓𝐕 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐬 (𝟑-𝐏𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭)

Every year after the NBA All-Star Game, the same criticisms resurface: "These guys don’t try hard," "The All-Star game has lost its touch," "The players don’t care." And yes, I agree. But at this point, it’s a tired argument.

We all know things aren’t going to change, and we understand why they won’t—especially when an injury can cost players millions of dollars. The memory of Paul George's injury during a meaningless FIBA practice serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved.

When the All-Star Game came to Indianapolis, I had little interest in paying $500.00 to see the main event. However, I was intrigued by the idea of the NBA festivities taking place in my city. Then, something unexpected happened. Before my car slid off the road on the way up (a story for another time), I discovered the All-Star Game Practice.

Initially, I would have dismissed it, but the tickets were only $26.00 for seats similar to those we normally got for Pacers games, but at half the price. My fellow 3 Point Threat Isaiah and I found ourselves in the upper deck with general admission seating, giving us the freedom to choose our vantage point.

What unfolded during the practice session surprised and delighted us. The beauty of the practice lies in its lower expectations. While you still see all the All-Stars, there’s a sense that they’re just there to have fun with each other. And that’s exactly what happened—it was great!

Witnessing each conference engage in a game of knockout was a highlight. I wholeheartedly advocate for adding this to All-Star Weekend because it’s fast-paced, lighthearted, and the players genuinely seem to enjoy it.

Watching the Western All Stars like Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic playfully compete in knockout was pure entertainment. From seeing eight 3’s made in arow to Jokic’s humble victory to the camaraderie among the players, it was a refreshing change of pace from the intensity of regular NBA games. But what truly stood out was how the players interacted with the fans.

Yes, the All-Star Game is about recognizing the players for their hard work, but it’s also about the fans. Seeing Stephen Curry take shots requested by fans or tossing a ball to a spectator to take a shot from the stands was incredibly cool. Across the court, Luka Doncic was sinking half-court corner shots, even calling a shot to hit off the floor and go in, further igniting the crowd’s excitement.

I couldn’t help but feel that the practice session embodied the true spirit of basketball—a game meant to be enjoyed by players and fans alike. So, the next time the All-Star Weekend rolls around, make sure to add the All-Star practice to your list of must-see events. Trust me; it’s worth it.

Follow us @3PointThreat on Youtube or Facebook to see a video of the knockout contest!