Someone has to solve the All-Star Game malaise. So we'll give it a shot.
theathletic.com
Doesn't matter which of the four North American sports we're dealing with: if the players don't care, all the tactics and gimmicks won't work. You're not going to incentivize them with more bonus money either.
If people don't want to watch it, no one is forcing them to.
I agree 100%.
What I have seen from a lot if not most of these NBA players is that they are generally good people who do a lot for their communities and charities. Rather than give players bonuses or incentives, I would like to see the winning team receive a sizeable donation to be given to a charity in the host city. Winning team gets to donate to their charity (something in the 10 MIL range). Losing team gets a smaller donation (somewhere in the 1-2 Million range)
As part of the weekend, have ALL players (even the ones with huge egos) go to these charities/ hospitals and meet the kids/ adults they are playing for. Good publicity for the charity, players, and the players' brand. These players got into the league because they are competitors. I think when you have the motivation to go out there and not only put on a show, but also you have a chance to build a bond between community and their heroes all while promoting a competitive ALL Star game. Bring the competitiveness out through the incentive of helping those who will never have the opportunity to be in the NBA players' shoes.
Hell, also give a large donation to the Offensive MVP and Defensive MVP's charities of choice. Make players work on both sides of the floor.
One thing that stands out to me is during the MLB All Star Weekend and the Home Run derby. I just remember the guys trying to win for their respective person so that person could win a house and change their life for the better. I also remember certain players walking over after they were eliminated and apologizing and letting them know they tried. And I also remember how special it was for the players to stand next to the person they just won a house for.
Maybe I'm way off but I think this would a be a step in the right direction.
