LeBron James made headlines on Sunday as he took to the interview podium at the NBA All-Star Weekend, his large water jug in hand and a do-rag covering his hair, becoming the last of the All-Stars to engage with the media. This year marked a significant moment in his illustrious career, as he was selected as a reserve, which snapped his impressive streak of 21 consecutive All-Star starts but extended his record for overall appearances to 22.
At 41 years old and now in his 23rd NBA season, questions about James’s future were inevitable. When asked if he had any thoughts about next season, James humorously responded, “I want to live. When I know, you guys will know. I don’t know. I have no idea. I just want to live. That’s all.”
Representing Team Stripes, James played alongside fellow veterans Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry, though the latter sat out due to a right knee injury. Reflecting on their long-standing camaraderie, James commented on their shared experiences, saying, “It’s always an honor to see those guys. We have had such an unbelievable journey throughout our individual careers.” He noted their connections through regular-season matchups, Finals appearances, and Olympic Team experiences, emphasizing that he, Curry, and Durant will remain intertwined in basketball history.
This year’s All-Star format saw a switch from the traditional East vs. West to a U.S. vs. World format. Teams played in a round-robin tournament structure, with Team Stars taking on Team World first. The game showcased an exciting finish, with Team Stars overcoming Team World 37-35 in overtime, spearheaded by a clutch three-pointer from Scottie Barnes. Victor Wembanyama stood out for Team World, contributing 14 points, six rebounds, and three blocks.
As the All-Star festivities continued, James expressed uncertainty about the new format, stating, “I mean, East-West is definitely a tradition. It’s been really good.” He acknowledged the challenges of comparing U.S. talent against that of the globe but remained hopeful about the novelty of the format.
Before the tournament tipped off, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama were met with a warm standing ovation from the crowd, underlining the cultural significance of the event.
With a blend of seasoned talent and innovative competition formats, this year’s All-Star Weekend not only showcased remarkable athleticism but also highlighted the evolving landscape of the NBA, promising excitement for fans and players alike.