Part 4/10:
Parkins recalls how the All-Star Game used to maintain an unwritten social contract: players entertained without taking it too seriously and kept the competition enjoyable. Notably, during the 2020 All-Star Game, players paid homage to Kobe Bryant, culminating in a thrilling finish that re-engaged viewers. Parkins argues that today’s players are capable of maintaining that level of competitive spirit, referencing pickup games in the offseason where stars like Kevin Durant and Draymond Green exhibit high-level play.