Live from Indianapolis, Indiana, the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend is finally here! Lebron James and the West team beat Milwaukee Bucks star power forward Giannis Antetokounmpo and the East at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse – home of the Indiana Pacers and the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. At the venue, some of the biggest names in music, film, television, and entertainment came to witness the big game, the slam dunk contest, and of course, showcase their latest threads on the aqua stage. Today, we’ll be dishing out thoughts on the predictions that the best and brightest had before watching the big game.
NBA All-Star Weekend: Today’s Biggest Names Walk the Aqua Stage
Last night’s festivities were hosted by NBA Today’s Malika Andrews. The California-born reporter and journalist exchanged words with some of the biggest names in media and entertainment as they gushed about their love of the sport while also showcasing their fits of the night before the big game and events went underway.
Jermaine O’Neal and Ron Artest’s “Bold” MVP Predictions
Prediction numero uno comes from the former numero siete. Mr. O’Neal popped out tonight in a monochrome fit for the ages. The former center/power forward for the Indiana Pacers attended last night’s festivities alongside fellow teammate Ron Artest AKA Metta Sandford-Artest AKA Metta World Peace. When the two were asked by Andrews about their MVP predictions, the two former Pacers gave differing answers to nab the coveted accolade. Jermaine stated “I think Luka [Doncic] wins the MVP.” while Artest was quick to retort with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander winning instead.
9th Wonder Looks To The Future
9th Wonder, the Grammy award-winning record producer known for his collaborations with Mary J. Blige and Kendrick Lamar, stopped to chat with Malika in a cool, subtly toned outfit. The accomplished artist weighed in on his guesses. He said what he’d like to happen in the NBA All-Star Weekend on the last play. Lee mentioned a name that was shared quite a couple of times amongst fans. Wonder, born Patrick Douthit, stated “One of my Duke boys taking the last shot like Paulo Banchero or Jayson Tatum. It’s only right,” to which Andrews showed her solidarity.
NBA All-Star Weekend: Movie and Music Moguls Gush with Guesses
NBA All-Star Weekend: “King of New York” Spike Lee Wishes for “Orange and Blue Skies”
Veteran film director and noted New York Knicks superfan Spike Lee is the first celebrity to gush about their love for their team on the Blue Carpet. “I want to see some defense. Like people are scoring 150 points like it’s alright.” The topic turned to last year’s NBA All-Star Weekend MVP and beloved Celtics forward Jayson Tatum scoring 50 points in last year’s All-Star Game. Lee didn’t hesitate to let his true colors show when he joked, “I don’t count those Boston Celtics things.” The conversation ended when he shared how the Knicks are in their current state. He noted they are “a little banged up” but orange and blue skies will appear again.
Fat Joe Picks Up Where Spike Lee Left Off
South Bronx rapper Fat Joe continues to show New York and the Knicks some love. He strolled up to talk with Malika. When she asked his predictions for the Knicks, he openly shared “I feel like we’re going all the way this year. It’s been a long time since I could say that with confidence. I love that our main guys are hurt but the younger fellas are getting to gel together when it comes down to crunch down. When Randle comes back and when OG comes back, we’re going to be alright.” As for who’d get NBA All-Star Weekend MVP, it was a no-brainer when he picked star point guard of the Knicks Jalen Brunson.
Another New York Rapper Joins the Aqua Stage
Soon after Fat Joe shared his thoughts, Jadakiss spent some time with Malika. The three-time Grammy Award-nominated artist weighed on what he most looked forward to last night. “You know how they take a little longer to heat up and start playing like at the end of the game?” Jadakiss shared. “I want to see a little more seriousness in the beginning so we don’t have to the wait to the end for the nailbiters.” The NBA All-Star Weekend had more energy and excitement here than in the game itself at times!
About the Author
Michael Omoruan is a New York native often watching Knicks, Mavs, Giants, and Patriots games. He watches the occasional film and show when he can, mostly those in the realm of science fiction or action/adventure.