As the NBA embarks on their annual all star game this weekend, it’s about time I take a look at all the hoop games that’ll be happening in L.A. this year. This is the first time the All Star game event and its festivities have been in southern California since the classic game back in 1992, and this year again looks like it won’t disappoint. Granted, maybe the whole weekend is basketball without defense, but that doesn’t mean it’s not fun. Plus, we have to pull for the local folks that’ll be taking the court. In Friday’s (2/18/2011) Rookie Challenge, for instance, Kentucky fans will be thrilled to see a major piece of last year’s team together again, even if it’s not in the trademarked blue and white. Eric Bledsoe (Now with the Clippers), DeMarcus Cousins (Kings), and John Wall (Wizards) will start on the same side of the tip off again against the NBA’s top sophomores. If the newbies can pull off a “W” there, it will be the first time the rookies ever won two years in a row. Of course, they’re facing off against the same guys who won it last year, so that’s no easy feat.
It’s the All Star game on Sunday, though, that’s the reason for the weekend. And, coming out of Eastern High School in Louisville for the East All Stars is Rajon Rondo, currently with the Celtics. Most will remember Rondo for his days as a Wildcat just a few years ago. Along with Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, and Derrick Rose, Rondo will face off against Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul and the rest of the West All Stars.
Other events to watch for on TNT’s coverage of the weekend are the Slam Dunk Contest, The Three Point Contest and the Skills Challenge – all on Saturday night. So, I guess the only thing left to say is, “See you on the court”.
NBA All Star. All Star NBA. Retrieved February 17, 2011, from http://www.allstarnba.es/editions/2011.htm
Photo: D. Rose
Prior to taking the court as an All Star Rajon Rondo was proudly an Eastern Eagle.