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.

3‑Point Shootout

The event opened with Damian Lillard’s triumphant return from an Achilles tear, showcasing his sharpshooting prowess. Lillard captured his third title, outpacing Devin Booker who fell short on his final three attempts. The field featured a stellar lineup from Booker to Norman Powell, turning the contest into an epic display of precision.

Shooting Stars

After an 11‑year hiatus, the Shooting Stars returned—modern stars clashed with legends in a timed jump‑shot contest.

• Team Knicks (Jalen Brunson & Karl‑Anthony Towns) led the first round with 27 points.
• Team Cameron (Duke alumni, featuring Kon Knuppel & Jalen Johnson) opened with 24 points.
  The competition highlighted the blend of past glory and present skill, replacing the long‑gone Skills Competition.

Dunking Drama

Three‑time champ Mac McClung was replaced by fresh challengers: Carter Bryant, Jaxson Hayes and Keshad Johnson each brought new flair.

• Jase Richardson—coached by his father, two‑time dunk champion Jason Richardson—exemplified the generational link that keeps the contest alive.

Other Highlights

• Jaylen Brown floated a call for a 1‑on‑1 showdown, hoping to reintroduce raw competition.
• Giannis Antetokounmpo declined a game due to calf strain but remained upbeat about recovery.
• Adam Silver hinted at 2026 expansion plans, noting a future vote and potential new markets such as 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.