If disappointment stems from unfulfilled expectations, then those who anticipated the NBA All-Star Game and its accompanying weekend to be valuable are understandably let down.

It should have been clear from the outset: the event lacks excitement. Players don’t seem enthusiastic, and fans aren’t particularly engaged either. Even die-hard basketball fans, like myself, who are fortunate enough to earn a living watching the sport, dread discussing or writing about it.

Take Sunday’s All-Star Game, which dragged on for nearly three hours but featured roughly 30 minutes of actual basketball play. The on-court action, peppered with minimal effort from some players, was as captivating as watching paint dry—exactly what we’ve come to expect from All-Star basketball. Ironically, the other entertainment segments were so cringeworthy that audiences found themselves longing for more of the game itself.

And let’s talk about Kevin Hart. For years, I’ve questioned how this individual, who seemed to lack any comedic value on Sunday, gained such immense popularity. Now, I’m even more baffled by whoever thought it was a smart idea to have him serve as an “on-court emcee.”

The ironic twist is that an event characterized by the evident disinterest of these remarkably skilled athletes was hosted by someone who appears to overexert himself in every attempt.

This lengthy showcase was difficult to endure. It raises the question: who is the NBA All-Star Game even intended for? It’s obvious the answer revolves around revenue. Sponsors and television contracts are key, but the product offered is seriously lacking.

We owe a debt of gratitude to Mac McClung for providing fans with a standout moment during Saturday night’s Dunk Contest. Typically, the 3-point contest delivers some fun, but even that fell flat this year.

Star player Stephen Curry didn’t participate in All-Star Saturday festivities at his home arena. Although he made a stunning half-court shot during the All-Star Game, which was the highlight of the night, it was a lesser-known player named Jaren who stole the show with a memorable bank shot from halfway across the court to win a $100,000 prize.

Jaren and Kevin Hart—it appears that’s what people will remember from the 2025 NBA All-Star Event. There was once a time when All-Star games were thrilling because the top athletes genuinely put in the effort—especially in close fourth quarters or during standout matchups—but those days are clearly behind us.

Remember when All-Star games were special because fans couldn’t watch every NBA matchup anytime? Back then, you might only see a specific superstar once, perhaps when they visited your city or during a nationally televised game. It was a unique opportunity to witness outstanding players who were otherwise less accessible to the public.

Now, it’s just another chance to watch Jayson Tatum and Donovan Mitchell take multiple three-point shots—hardly anything special. Honestly, I believe I speak for most true NBA enthusiasts when I say we see these players frequently, thanks to TNT, ESPN, and League Pass.

We’ve had enough. Trust me—nobody benefits from this weekend, particularly the players themselves. They deserve a breather. And please, for everyone’s sake, let’s take a break from Kevin Hart.