Brian Windhorst claims NBA is “required” VNBA after cancellation of 3-point competition

Cancellation The NBA is a 3-point competition, Expected to introduce stars like a golden state warrior Stephen Curri and VNBA stars Sabrina Ionescu from New York freedom and possibly Caitlin Clark Indiana fever, caused a discussion of the relationship between two leagues. During the segment to Stephen A. Smith “First Take” Thursday, ESPNs Brian Windhorst suggested that the NBA “needs” VNBA stars More than vice versa When it comes to events like weekend all-star.

“The NBA needs a wnba star more at the VNV-Star Week than the other way around,” Vindhorst said. “VNBA All-Star weekend was awesome last year.”

The debate was created after plans to re-create last year’s High profile with 3-point Showdown between Curri and Ionescu fell through. Clark, who was a key goal for this year’s competition, refused an invitation, stating that she wanted her first trient confection to take place in the All-Star weekend in Indianapolis this summer. Without a sustainable alternative to raising an event, the NBA decided to cancel competition, focusing instead of its restructured game format.

Vindhorst’s exhausts arrived during the broader discussion of the growing traction of the VNA event. Guest Elle Duncan emphasized the higher numbers of watching the 3-point VNBA, which saw 142% (695,000 spectators) rating in comparison with the previous year, while last year’s currry-Ionescu showdown intensified NBA All-Star Weekend’s score 31 % (4.6 million viewers).

“They absolutely say” I will no longer borrow our names out. Steph, you want to fight with me in 3 points, to show some love, something you’ve always done in this area and make sure you help our product, as well as the opposite you just keep getting bigger numbers when they You already have, “Duncan said.

Smith stressed the need for weekends for All-Star to show effort and authenticity.

“When those ladies go out in court, they worry,” Smith said. “I hope to see the same energy from the NBA this weekend.”

The idea of ​​integrating VNBA stars in NBA’s marks events has gained a traction in recent years, with last year’s Curri-Ionescu competition, which served as a main example. However, the impossibility of league to replicate or build at that moment this year has left fans and analysts who call into question the execution of the NBA.