Night of Nerve and Nets: All‑Star Saturday Unpacked

In the glow of Inglewood’s Intuit Dome, the NBA All‑Star weekend’s star‑buried Saturday night unfurled with a mix of fireworks and strategy. The 3‑point shootout opened the show, featuring Damian Lillard’s comeback after an Achilles tear and a field of talent that stretched from Devin Booker to Norman Powell. Lillard’s sharp shooting earned him his third title, outpacing Booker who fell short on his final three attempts. The Shooting Stars returned after an 11‑year pause, pitting modern stars against legends in a timed jump‑shot contest. Team Knicks—led by Jalen Brunson and Karl‑Anthony Towns—topped the first round with 27 points, earning a spot in the final against Team Cameron, a squad of Duke alumni that opened strong with 24 points from Kon Knuppel and Jalen Johnson. The event highlighted the blend of past glory and present skill, replacing the long‑gone Skills Competition.Dunking drama followed, with new challengers stepping in for three‑time champ Mac McClung. Carter Bryant, Jaxson Hayes and Keshad Johnson each brought fresh flair to the floor, while Jase Richardson—coached by his father Jason Richardson, a two‑time dunk champion—showed the generational link that keeps the contest alive. Other moments added texture to the night: Jaylen Brown floated a call for a 1‑on‑1 showdown, hoping to add raw competition back into the weekend. Giannis Antetokounmpo declined a game due to calf strain, yet remained upbeat about his recovery. Adam Silver hinted at 2026 expansion plans, noting a future vote and potential new markets like Seattle or Las Vegas. The evening underscored that All‑Star Saturday is more than a showcase; it’s a test of resilience, nostalgia and the ever‑evolving NBA landscape.