NBA All-Star Game 2023: Live Updates, Exciting Highlights, and Key Results!

The 74th NBA All-Star Game kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on Sunday, airing on TNT. This year introduces an exciting tournament-style format, but LeBron James will sit out due to ongoing ankle soreness. James, who set a record by making his 21st All-Star appearance, isn’t taking the event lightly, but health comes first.

This year’s All-Star event features a new twist. Instead of a traditional game, All-Stars will compete in a three-game tournament. Teams were formed through a draft led by TNT analysts Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kenny Smith. The first two matches include Team Shaq going against Team Candace Parker, and Team Chuck taking on Team Kenny. Notably, Parker’s team secured a spot in this tournament by winning the Rising Stars Challenge.

The winners of each match will be the first to reach 40 points. Players from the championship team will earn $125,000 each, while those on the second place will earn $50,000. Players who finish third and fourth will receive $25,000 each.

Here’s a look at the team rosters:

Team Shaq

• Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves
• Jalen Brunson, Knicks
• Jaren Jackson Jr., Grizzlies
• Jalen Williams, Thunder
• Darius Garland, Cavaliers
• Evan Mobley, Cavaliers
• Cade Cunningham, Pistons
• Tyler Herro, Heat

Team Kenny

• Nikola Jokić, Nuggets
• Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks (injured)
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder
• Victor Wembanyama, Spurs
• Pascal Siakam, Pacers
• Alperen Şengün, Rockets
• Karl-Anthony Towns, Knicks
• Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers
• Trae Young, Hawks

Team Candace

• Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs
• Ryan Dunn, Phoenix Suns
• Zach Edey, Memphis Grizzlies
• Keyonte George, Utah Jazz
• Trayce Jackson-Davis, Golden State Warriors
• Dalton Knecht, Los Angeles Lakers
• Jaylen Wells, Memphis Grizzlies
• Amen Thompson, Houston Rockets

This year, fans will miss watching LeBron, who had been on a record-setting streak of 20 consecutive All-Star Game starts. He decided to rest to prepare for the upcoming season’s playoffs, acknowledging the need to manage his ankle issues. His absence highlights the importance of player health in an intense schedule.

Meanwhile, the All-Star weekend has already showcased talent. Mac McClung clinched his third consecutive slam dunk title, dazzling fans with incredible dunks and earning perfect scores. As the All-Star festivities continue, it promises to be an action-packed event filled with memorable moments.