The Scene

NBA All-Star Weekend Goes One-on-One Against Oscar Night

Published on Tuesday, February 21 2012
Written by Tallie Johnson

February 26 is a big night for movies. The whole weekend, you will hear about what movies will take away the most awards, who will have a sob speech, and what the ladies will be wearing. But if the Oscars aren't your thing, there is an alternative. The NBA All Star Weekend will start coverage Thursday, February 23, and continue until Sunday, February 26. For those who aren’t familiar, the weekend consists of non-stop basketball events and contests, bringing together players from across the league to compete.

There is the classic NBA Sprit Slam Dunk Contest -- Last year, Blake Griffin won this by jumping over a car as a gospel choir sang in the background. Saturday also includes the Three-Point Contest. Will.i.am, Flo Rida, and The Black Eyed Peas will take to the stage on this evening.

February 26 on TNT, the actually game will be aired. As always, it will be the West versus the East.

This year repping for the West Coast include key players like Kevin Durant, Blake Griffin, Kobe Bryant, Chris Paul, Andrew Bynum, Steve Nash, Dirk Nowitzki, and Tony Parker. The East Coast includes Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Chris Bosh, Paul Pierce, Dwight Howard, Dwayne Wade, Joe Johnson, and Derrick Rose.  The West won last year, so we’ll see which team takes home the prize this year.

And this game is not without an all-star entertainment line up as well. On the docket is Mary J. Blige, who will open the game with her rendition of the National Anthem. Nicki Minaj will perform during the game introductions; no word yet if she will come as her alter ego Roman and perform another exorcism like at the Grammys. Hopefully she will stick with her fun hits like “Superbass” and “Starships". Pitbull and Ne-Yo will headline the halftime show, performing their hits such as “Give Me Everything.” Some surprise guests are expected to perform with them as well.

It’s a great sports game with some great performances mixed in. It can be a perfect alternative for those seeking to avoid the end of award season. And if you’re in Orlando, there is still time try to score tickets or at least hang out for the many after-parties. Here is a list of all the events and times.

Which Coast are you rooting for?

 

- Tallie Johnson, YH Staff