At NBA All-Star Weekend the best of the best players use the event to display their abilities yet 2025 witnessed an absence of key features. The NBA fanbase expected spectacular performances but received a huge disappointment because Stephen Curry chose not to compete in the Three-Point Contest. Yeah, you read that right. The all-time greatest shooter chose to skip out on this event which he had previously ruled for years. Fans weren’t happy.

Stephen A. Smith had numerous points to share according to expectations. Stephen Curry stands as “God’s greatest shooter” yet he chose to skip the Three-Point Contest. Smith asked, completely stunned. To be honest Smith, you are not alone. Fans, analysts, and just about every one of us feel confused. One must question why Steph would leave behind an activity that he has led for numerous years.

Smith didn’t hold back. As it stands he is right about his point. The absence of athletes who rarely play would draw no attention from the general audience. But this is Steph Curry. Steph Curry’s playing lifts the entire competition to a higher level of importance. The event maintains its special quality when he participates.

Moreover, here’s the thing—Curry’s presence alone elevates the competition. He’s not just any shooter; he’s THE shooter. With him out, the contest just isn’t the same. This left all of us fans feeling robbed. In addition, Smith also pointed out a growing issue—why are so many top shooters opting out? Are they afraid of losing? Do they want to avoid injuries? Or have they just stopped caring?

“Is it just me? Am I the only one that had a problem with the fact that the three-point shooting contest was taking place right there in San Francisco on his home turf and he wasn’t a participant? ” Smith added. And he’s got a point. Steph wouldn’t even have to travel or go out of his way. He’d just have to show up and do what he does best—shoot.

Then, there’s the timing of it all. Smith was especially annoyed that Curry’s decision came so late.  And honestly? He’s right. If fans had known earlier, they wouldn’t have gotten their hopes up.

The Hidden Issue Lurking at NBA All-Star Weekend: Stephen Curry’s Controversial Absence

While everyone focused on Curry’s absence, a much bigger issue went largely unnoticed—All-Star Weekend lacked star power across the board. Furthermore, Smith called it out.

The Dunk Contest? Once the most electrifying event of the weekend? Yeah, it has basically turned into Mac McClung’s personal showcase. To be fair, McClung can fly, and his dunks are insane. However, the fact that a G-League player has won it three years in a row? That speaks volumes about the state of the competition. Let’s not get into the whole debate

“ Do you know that Mac McClung is in the G League? Do you know that he has three slam dunk championships and it almost matches the number of NBA games he’s actually played in his NBA career?  Do you know that Mac McClung has played a grand total of five NBA games in his career and he’s won three slam dunk titles? This is not to throw any shade on him whatsoever.” Smith pointed out. And once again, he’s absolutely right. Where are the superstars? Where’s the excitement?

Back in the day, the Dunk Contest was a must-watch event. Vince Carter. Michael Jordan. Dominique Wilkins. Kobe Bryant. Now? It feels like an exhibition for guys who barely see the court. That’s a problem. If the hoopers don’t show up, what’s the point of the weekend?  And honestly? That’s the question every fan should be asking. If the best All-Stars don’t care, why should the fans?

Stephen A. Smith’s frustration over Stephen Curry skipping the Three-Point Contest isn’t just about one decision—it highlights a much bigger issue.

At this point, the NBA has a real problem on its hands. If the biggest stars keep skipping these events, what’s left? All-Star Weekend used to be about competition, bragging rights, and putting on a show for the fans. Now? It feels more like a formality than a real celebration of the game.

As a result, the league needs to figure out how to get its biggest names to actually care again. Otherwise, All-Star Weekend will continue losing its magic. And let’s be honest—We do not want that.