In its return to the original format and with the highest score in the history of the event, the Eastern Conference defeated the West 211-186 and won the NBA All Star Game that took place in the city of Indianapolis, for first time since 1985. LeBron James reached record participation and Damian Lillardwho had established himself in the three-point contest the day before, was elected MVP as a result of his 39 points y 11 triples noted.
This All-Star Game marked the return of the East versus West duel, a decision by the NBA to try to regain competitive ground and put an end to the All-Star draft that took place during the last six seasons.
But far from being fulfilled, the NBA commissioner’s objective was Adam Silver. In the game there were many points that came from the facilities provided in the attacks and a practically zero defensive attention.
Silver made his discomfort known when he handed the trophy to Giannis Antetokounmpo: “To the Eastern Conference team, you scored a record number of points… well… congratulations”.
But the NBA commissioner was not the only one to raise his voice on the matter. The legend of Boston Celtics, Larry Birdhad also publicly asked the players to take the game seriously, whose television ratings gradually declined until hitting rock bottom last year.
Beyond this controversy, the All-Star will be remembered for LeBron James’ twentieth participation. The Los Angeles Lakers star played only 14 minutes as a result of the problems he has been having with his ankle. However, that time was more than enough for the 39-year-old basketball player to score 8 points and capture 4 rebounds.
“It has been an absolute honor to be able to participate throughout my career and be with the best players in the world year after year”expressed LeBron James. “It’s something I will never forget. It’s part of my journey”complete.
The top scorer of the game was the Dominican-American center Karl-Anthony Townswhich he achieved 50 points for the West.
The choice of Damian Lillard as Most Valuable Player unleashed boos from the crowd at the Indiana Pacers’ Gainbridge Fieldhouse, who wanted the award to go to the star of the local team, Tyrese Haliburtonwhich also shone with 32 points y 10 triples.