The Skills Challenge at All-Star Weekend is changing its format. The event now features an eight-man bracket with players matched against each other competing at the same time. Instead of finishing with a dunk or a layup, competitors will now have to hit a three-pointer for the final basket.
NBA Skills Challenge changes format, features John Wall, Kyle Lowry and Jeff Teague
The Skills Challenge is getting a makeover.
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Ricky O'Donnell has covered basketball at all levels for more than a decade at SB Nation. He’s currently the Associate Director of Programming.
The winner of John Wall vs. Isaiah Thomas will face the winner of Michael Carter-Williams vs. Jeff Teague on one side of the bracket. On the other, the winner of Trey Burke vs. Brandon Knight will face the winner of Jimmy Butler vs. Kyle Lowry.
Here’s a look at the full bracket:
The course for the Skills Challenge remains the same with the exception of competitors now needing to finish with a three-pointer instead of a dunk. Previously, one player has had the court to himself while going through the course. This year, both players in the bracketed matchup will compete at the same time.
Here’s a look at the course:
The Skills Challenge began in 2002-03 with Jason Kidd winning the inaugural event. Last season, Damian Lillard and Trey Burke tied with a time of 45.2 seconds. Past winners include Dwyane Wade (twice), Steve Nash (twice), Derrick Rose and Tony Parker.
Here’s a full look at the rules:
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