NBA – Paul Pierce’s Blunt Take: “Not Enough Good International Players for That”

For years now, the All-Star Game has been criticized in the NBA calendar, mainly due to the lack of intensity shown by the players. Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett recently discussed potential changes but remained unconvinced about the solutions.

The All-Star Game: A Disappointing Spectacle

The All-Star Game is meant to be a celebration of basketball and the league’s biggest superstars, showcasing the best talent on the planet. However, in recent years, it has become more of a mockery, losing both excitement and relevance.

Because players fear injury in a game that doesn’t count for anything, they barely play at 50% effort. There’s no defense, no real competition—just endless three-point attempts and open dunks. This is why NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has been trying to change the format.

Paul Pierce Skeptical About a “USA vs. World” All-Star Format

A few weeks ago, the NBA experimented with a four-team mini-tournament, but fans were not impressed. So, could a “USA vs. The World” format be the solution? Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett discussed this possibility on their show.

Paul Pierce: “I don’t think there are enough good international players to make a real All-Star team. Some of the selected players wouldn’t even deserve to be there.”

Kevin Garnett: “Are you crazy?! Of course, there are enough! Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Wemby… I can name at least seven more.”

“Pascal Siakam could play on the wing, the Wagner brothers… The World Team would be terrifying. Personally, I love this format.”

Paul Pierce: “But on the other hand, who would be the big men for Team USA? Anthony Davis and Chet Holmgren? Maybe Bam Adebayo? Against Jokic, Embiid, and Wemby? That would be completely unbalanced.”

Is “USA vs. The World” a Good Idea?

Paul Pierce remains unconvinced about the viability of a “USA vs. World” All-Star Game format. He raises a valid concern: Would this format lead to unfair selections? For example, Team USA’s big men wouldn’t compare to the international lineup, which features dominant forces like Jokic, Embiid, and Wembanyama.

Regardless of what decision the NBA makes, one thing is clear—the All-Star Game needs to change for fans to regain interest. At the very least, a “USA vs. World” format could tap into national pride, making the event more competitive and engaging.