The Stephen A. Smith Show: In-Depth Analysis of the 21st NBA All-Star Game

Episode Title: Stephen A's Take: Lebron maybe setting unbreakable records, 21st NBA all-star game
Release Date: January 25, 2025
Host: Stephen A. Smith
Platform: iHeartPodcasts

1. Introduction to the NBA All-Star Game Starters

In this episode, Stephen A. Smith delves into the selections for the 21st NBA All-Star Game, providing a thorough analysis of the chosen starters from both the Eastern and Western Conferences. He begins by listing the starters and immediately sets the stage for a critical examination of the selections.

Notable Quote:
"Let's get into the NBA, specifically the All Star Game, whose starters were named last night?"
[01:05]

2. Breakdown of Eastern and Western Conference Starters

Stephen A. starts by acknowledging the talent in the Eastern Conference, highlighting players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jalen Brunson. He expresses confidence in the Eastern starters, emphasizing their performance and leadership throughout the season.

Notable Quote:
"In the east, the starters are Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jason Tatum, Donovan Mitchell, and two, count them, two of my New York Knicks, Jalen Brunson and Carl Anthony Towns."
[01:15]

Conversely, he scrutinizes the Western Conference starters, questioning the inclusion of certain players based on their current form and team performance.

Notable Quote:
"The west is a little bit interesting. ... I think Kevin Durant should be coming off the bench."
[04:30]

3. Critique of Western Conference Starters Selection

Stephen A. takes a strong stance against the selection of Kevin Durant as a starter, citing his recent injuries and the Phoenix Suns' lackluster performance this season. He advocates for Victor Wembanyama and Anthony Davis to take Durant's place, arguing that their contributions and impact on their respective teams warrant a starting position.

Notable Quotes:
"Victor Wembanyama should be averaging 24 and 10, shooting 35% from three, leading the league in blocks with four games."
[05:15]

"Anthony Davis should be in there because of what he means to the Lakers. And the Lakers are a top five seed in a Western Conference right now."
[06:00]

4. Examination of the Voting and Selection Process

Stephen A. sheds light on the All-Star voting mechanism, explaining that fans hold a 50% weight in the voting process, with NBA players and media each holding 25%. He underscores the importance of genuine fan support but remains critical of the outcome based on his analysis of player performance.

Notable Quote:
"Fans take up 50% of the vote. NBA players another 25%. The media another 25%. And the reserves are chosen by the 30 coaches in the league."
[04:45]

5. Opinions on the All-Star Game Format Changes

Addressing recent format changes to the All-Star Game, Stephen A. expresses strong disdain, viewing them as unnecessary and detracting from the event's essence. He criticizes the new bracketed tournament style, labeling it an embarrassment for the NBA.

Notable Quote:
"The new format is an embarrassment for the NBA because it shows that the players have to be incentivized for playing in front of the fans at All Star Weekend."
[06:30]

6. Final Thoughts on All-Star Weekend and Player Acknowledgments

Concluding his analysis, Stephen A. reiterates his disappointment with the current selections and format. He praises Steph Curry's undeniable greatness and the importance of fan bases in the selection process, reinforcing his stance on what he believes constitutes deserving All-Star starters.

Notable Quote:
"You can't have All Star Weekend in San Francisco. And Steph Curry's not starting... he deserves it."
[07:20]

Conclusion

Stephen A. Smith delivers a passionate and articulate critique of the 21st NBA All-Star Game selections, particularly focusing on the pitfalls of the Western Conference starter choices and the implications of recent format changes. His insights provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics behind All-Star selections and underscore the importance of merit-based recognition in the sport.

For those interested in hearing more of Stephen A.'s unfiltered opinions and in-depth sports analysis, tune into "The Stephen A. Smith Show" available on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred podcast platform.