This year's class is rich in talent, but young at heart. No one is older than 24, and no one has more than two years' experience. The likes of Kobe Bryant, Steve Francis and Tracy McGrady were replaced with an even younger generation. Not your typical household names. Spud Webb and others, who were able to excel at the All-Star weekend.
Some players cite injuries and rest for skipping the contest.
Others say they're simply not interested. NBA Commissioner David Stern said some players don't participate because they feel they aren't favored to win or possibly could be shown up. Bryant, the '97 winner, did not enter. He will play in the All-Star Game. Francis, claiming a sore ankle, bowed out late last month.