The NBA is shaking things up at this year’s All-Star Weekend, and they’re betting big on Kevin Hart to bring back the magic.
The comedian will make history as the first-ever on-court host during the All-Star Game on February 16 at San Francisco’s Chase Center. It’s a bold move by the league, which has been struggling with falling ratings in recent years.
Hart’s no stranger to NBA All-Star action. He’s already got four MVP titles from the Celebrity Game under his belt – though let’s be honest, those came more from his courtside antics than his basketball skills.
“This is the Kevin Hart Take Over,” the comedian declared in a funny promo video with Warriors star Draymond Green, who tried (and failed) to simply invite him to the game.
He’ll be joining an all-star broadcasting lineup of his own. The comedian will share hosting duties with TNT’s veteran announcer Ernie Johnson and a dream team of commentators including Charles Barkley, Shaq, Candace Parker, and Kenny Smith.
It’s perfect timing for Hart, who just received the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Comedy. His Hollywood career isn’t doing too badly either – his movies have raked in more than $4.23 billion worldwide.
But the new host isn’t the only change coming to All-Star Weekend. The NBA is completely revamping the format with a tournament-style setup.
Instead of the traditional East vs. West matchup, there will be four teams competing in three separate contests. Each game ends when one team hits 40 points.
Team captains Shaq, Barkley, and Smith will draft their squads from the pool of All-Stars, adding another layer of excitement to the mix.
Will Hart’s courtside commentary breathe new life into the All-Star Game? We’ll find out when the action tips off at 8 PM ET on TNT, TruTV, and MAX.
