Mac McClung has successfully defended his title, winning the dunk contest for the third consecutive year, showcasing his incredible athleticism with impressive dunks. Meanwhile, San Antonio Spurs rookie Stephon Castle had a strong showing during All-Star Weekend, finishing as the runner-up in the dunk contest after also earning the Rising Stars MVP.

Castle's performance has drawn praise from peers like Chris Paul and Victor Wembanyama, who have noted his aggressive playstyle and maturity on the court. The Spurs are currently working to integrate De'Aaron Fox into their lineup, which means Castle will need to continue developing his skills to maintain his role.

The 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend concluded with an electrifying Slam Dunk Contest, where Mac McClung made history by clinching his third consecutive title, an unprecedented achievement. The 6’2 guard dazzled the audience with incredible dunks, including a jaw-dropping leap over a Kia and a 7-foot participant, marking his dominance in the competition.

Post-event discussions ignited excitement as Ja Morant hinted at potentially joining next year’s contest, expressing admiration for McClung’s talent. Known for his explosive dunks, Morant’s participation could elevate the competition further. Giannis Antetokounmpo also joined the conversation, teasing a possible entry, which drew mixed reactions from fellow players like Anthony Edwards, who emphasized that Giannis excels more in-game than in the contest.

Orlando Magic welcomed Ethan Thompson, a guard from the Osceola Magic, who signed a two-way deal on February 7, filling the Magic's last roster position. Overjoyed, Thompson expressed gratitude for the opportunity, having played previously in the G League with the Windy City Bulls and the Mexico City Capitanes.

Thompson's journey to the NBA included being undrafted in 2021 and later receiving a financial incentive for his commitment to the Osceola team. After a standout performance logging a double-double against Raptors 905, Thompson's hard work paid off as he secured a two-year deal. His teammates, including Mac McClung and Cory Joseph, celebrated his success, highlighting the positive culture within the Magic organization.

The NBA's All-Star Game in San Francisco turned into a spectacle of critique rather than celebration, with players and entertainers questioning the game's substance. Draymond Green openly expressed his discontent, calling the new format "boring" and lacking in excitement. The event overshadowed the achievements of players like Stephen Curry, who won MVP, as critiques from figures like Kevin Hart dominated the atmosphere. The G League competitors provided a highlight, showcasing their skills and competitiveness, while the traditional dunk contest and ongoing criticisms of shooting styles left fans yearning for the glory days of the NBA.

Despite the controversies, the 3-point contest remained a crowd favorite, emphasizing the evolving nature of the game. Damian Lillard's reflections on Oakland's sports history highlighted the loss felt in the community as franchises depart. In the end, the weekend raised questions about the NBA's direction and the need for star participation to reclaim the event’s luster.

NBA All-Star Weekend showcased a reimagined format with three teams competing in a mini-tournament, resulting in mixed reactions from fans. Stephen Curry emerged as MVP for the weekend, notably thanks to a stellar performance in the final game. Mac McClung shined in the Dunk Contest, while Victor Wembanyama's disqualification in the Skills Challenge raised eyebrows despite his competitive spirit.

Noteworthy was Stephon Castle, who, despite impressive dunks, might be overshadowed by McClung's brilliance. LeBron James and Anthony Edwards' absences due to injuries left fans wanting, provoking discussions about timely replacements. All in all, the weekend was a rollercoaster of emotions, with some moments destined to be remembered for years to come.