Live Blog: NBA All-Star Game

(02/17/2008)

6:44

The stars are here and warming up in shootarounds, which means the game is just around the corner.

I am hearing rumors that Bryant will make a brief appearance and then sit, which given his injury, makes sense. It doesn't seem likely he'll reinjure the finger in a minute or two of action, but he also can't be effective out there with it either. A brief appearance is probably the right call.

Sunday February 17, 2008 6:44

6:46

Interestingly, Kevin Garnett and Doc Rivers are acting like there's a chance KG will play. That is a little shocking, as it would not benefit either man to act like KG might play if he in fact won't. It's not like this is a playoff game and Rivers is trying to pull a fast one. From what we've been told, if Rivers and Garnett feel he can go, then he'll go.

Sunday February 17, 2008 6:46

6:48

I highly doubt he plays though -- we could definitely see Kevin in Boston's first game after the break Tuesday, but tonight would be a big surprise.

Sunday February 17, 2008 6:48

6:49

BIG surprise.

Sunday February 17, 2008 6:49

6:59

[Comment From MattMatt: ]

How many minutes do u think Chris Paul will see tonight?

Sunday February 17, 2008 6:59 Matt

7:00

Probably not as many as we'd like -- unless of course Scott elects to go "small" at times. There is an unbelievable amount of talent at guard in the West ... which means Paul will have to take full advantage when he does get out there.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:00

7:00

[Comment From jimmyjimmy: ]

I hope the crowd gets rowdy in there tonight!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:00 jimmy

7:01

Ditto. It's filling up nicely at the moment, se we may even see a full house tonight ... though of course many of those fans aren't even local. This game is like the Super Bowl -- you better be famous or know someone with connections or you ain't getting in.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:01

7:04

[Comment From JimmyJimmy: ]

Thanks David, keep us posted on the atmosphere in there

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:04 Jimmy

7:04

[Comment From mikemike: ]

had a question what time and channel is the game gona be on

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:04 mike

7:04

Tipoff will occur sometime between 7:20 and 7:30 methinks -- TNT is broadcasting.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:04

7:05

[Comment From mikemike: ]

ok thanks alot

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:05 mike

7:05

No problem -- we aim to please.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:05

7:07

[Comment From name2iname2i: ]

So who's replacing Kevin Garnett

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:07 name2i

7:08

Well, each side has 14 total players, so it's not like the Pro Bowl where it's absolutely necessary injured players get replaced. So in short, Garnett will be in attendance and no one will be replacing him (at least according to the official roster).

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:08

7:09

[Comment From JimmyJimmy: ]

Chris Bosh is replacing him in the starting line-up

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:09 Jimmy

7:09

I believe that is correct.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:09

7:10

[Comment From happyhappy: ]

the tipoff is due in 5-10 mins?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:10 happy

7:10

Should be more like 15 I'd think -- they'll the anthem and such to get through.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:10

7:11

[Comment From shogunshogun: ]

whats going on there

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:11 shogun

7:11

Players are still shooting in warmups. The arena is filling up, and the anticipation is growing. Should be a fun night!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:11

7:12

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

is koby gonna play i thought he was injures

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:12 Guest

7:13

If you scroll up a bit you'll see what I wrote before -- nothing has changed with him to my knowledge, so Bryant should play a couple of minutes to start and then sit out the rest of the game.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:13

7:13

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Kobe just said he won't be getting surgery

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:13 Gene - NOLA.com

7:14

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Jason Kidd just said on air that his gut tells him he will be in Dallas by tom

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:14 Gene - NOLA.com

7:14

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

It sounds like Kidd might be back in New Orleans this Wednesday

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:14 Gene - NOLA.com

7:14

Kidd vs. Paul in the Arena! That would be a great matchup!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:14

7:15

[Comment From shogunshogun: ]

is it official?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:15 shogun

7:15

Not yet, but Kidd is saying he thinks it'll happen.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:15

7:16

[Comment From JeffJeff: ]

Is it crowded yet?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:16 Jeff

7:17

The lower bowl is full and the upper ring is getting there. We should have a full house by the midpoint of the first quarter.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:17

7:17

[Comment From JeffJeff: ]

I saw that last night, most of the upper deck was empty.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:17 Jeff

7:18

It was about half-full -- a lot better than the Rookie Challenge though! That game was like a November Hornets game!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:18

7:18

[Comment From SamSam: ]

Which big shots got the courtside seats tonghit?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:18 Sam

7:19

Haven't had a chance to people watch yet, but will let you know who I see -- has anyone seen any big names on the broadcast?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:19

7:19

[Comment From Spike LeeSpike Lee: ]

Spike Lee

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:19 Spike Lee

7:19

There ya go. Welcome aboard Spike!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:19

7:19

[Comment From shogunshogun: ]

hehe

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:19 shogun

7:20

[Comment From shogunshogun: ]

i saw terminator yesterday out there

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:20 shogun

7:20

Which one? ;)

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:20

7:20

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Good Stat

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:20 Gene - NOLA.com

7:21

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Pistons have won 10 in a row

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:21 Gene - NOLA.com

7:21

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Only 3 behind the Celtics

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:21 Gene - NOLA.com

7:21

Detroit has snuck up on folks.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:21

7:21

[Comment From shogunshogun: ]

gubernator arnold:)

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:21 shogun

7:22

The scoreboard is counting down from 10 min., so it'll be at least that long before this game tips off. FYI.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:22

7:22

[Comment From shogunshogun: ]

what u guys think who is gonna win

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:22 shogun

7:22

[Comment From shogunshogun: ]

i bet its east

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:22 shogun

7:24

[Comment From happyhappy: ]

yeah i think so too

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:24 happy

7:24

The lack of Kobe could either hurt or help the West methinks -- his selfishness wouldn't normally be missed, but the All-Star Game is all about selfishness -- if you aren't hogging the ball in this game, you aren't good.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:24

7:24

[Comment From shogunshogun: ]

true

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:24 shogun

7:25

[Comment From happyhappy: ]

true enough, but imagine the smaller guys trying to go all out against the giants when driving to the hope. not pretty

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:25 happy

7:26

Rebirth is playing now -- nice

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:26

7:26

Honeybees are looking good.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:26

7:26

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

WOW!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:26 Gene - NOLA.com

7:27

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Thats awesome

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:27 Gene - NOLA.com

7:27

[Comment From JimmyJimmy: ]

awesomeness

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:27 Jimmy

7:27

This is a fantastic way to show the world how New Orleans can rock. This is such a great town!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:27

7:28

[Comment From JimmyJimmy: ]

yeah you right

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:28 Jimmy

7:28

[Comment From pbpb: ]

any starting lineups yet?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:28 pb

7:31

Lineups announced now --

East: Kidd, Wade, Howard, Bosh, James

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:31

7:32

[Comment From happyhappy: ]

GO KING JAMES!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:32 happy

7:33

[Comment From JayJay: ]

I think they got the memo, much better music selection tonight.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:33 Jay

7:33

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Kermit Ruffins

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:33 Gene - NOLA.com

7:33

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Just joined Rebirth on Stage

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:33 Gene - NOLA.com

7:36

West: Iverson, Bryant, Ming, Anthony, Duncan

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:36

7:36

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Man I'm so Happy Byron Scott is getting his day

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:36 Gene - NOLA.com

7:36

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Just awesome to see

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:36 Gene - NOLA.com

7:36

[Comment From JayJay: ]

This is how you kickoff a PARTY!!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:36 Jay

7:36

[Comment From jimmyjimmy: ]

How' s the crowd now? Sounds awesome on TV

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:36 jimmy

7:37

They are great!!! The crowd went insane for Scott, Paul and West, and this atmosphere is just plain awesome at the moment.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:37

7:37

[Comment From lilianlilian: ]

hi eveybody, what channel is the game on?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:37 lilian

7:37

TNT. :)

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:37

7:42

[Comment From JayJay: ]

No soundtracks here. Just live music!!!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:42 Jay

7:43

I usually am from the Dr. Z school of anthem appreciation,, which is to say I hate overlong anthems and want to strangle the performers. But even though long, that was a beautiful anthem -- really captures the spirit of New Orleans in a lot of ways.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:43

7:44

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

The commercials are pretty good. Really showing New Orleans in a positive light. Not in a corny way either.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:44 Gene - NOLA.com

7:44

Good to hear!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:44

7:45

This has really been a wonderful showcase weeked for our city.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:45

7:45

[Comment From Johnny BlazeJohnny Blaze: ]

This is some weekend

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:45 Johnny Blaze

7:47

My only real complaint has been the traffic, which has been a disaster downtown. It felt like someone was manipulating traffic to perform a bank heist ala The Italian Job.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:47

7:47

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Hey Dave. Technically... If Kidd would have been traded this morning. Would he be on the West and wearing a Mavs jersey?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:47 Gene - NOLA.com

7:49

Good question! I would think the NBA has an allowance for that sort of situation and would have allowed him to join the West roster without booting one of the other players off -- sort of like the Olympics when they award multiple gold medals.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:49

7:49

[Comment From louisianahotsauce13@yahoolouisianahotsauce13@yahoo: ]

Just wondering why none of the players had their hands on their hearts for the Star Spangled Banner ???

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:49 louisianahotsauce13@yahoo

7:50

Because they're traitors? Seriously, I honestly have no idea, but I would think there's not a whole lot to it.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:50

7:51

I think the West wants Kobe to get a bucket before taking him out -- he may get a play or two.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:51

7:51

Nope, never mind.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:51

7:51

That's it for Bryant.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:51

7:53

Howard is making a statement this weekend -- he was amazing at the dunk contest and is leading all scorers tonight with 4.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:53

7:53

[Comment From KKKK: ]

It's good to see the game come to N.O.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:53 KK

7:53

Definitely -- East leads 12-5, by the way.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:53

7:54

Kidd is just chucking passes left and right -- he could finish with 20 assists tonight.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:54

7:56

[Comment From JayJay: ]

How is the crowd? The reasaon I ask is because the ESPN chat moderator said he is "bummed" more people are not there. Looks pretty strong on TV.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:56 Jay

7:56

Dude hasn't been to many games in New Orleans -- it's a whole different standard. The crowd is into the game and we've got a lot of folks here.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:56

7:57

That is better than your typical Hornets game was even a month ago.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:57

7:57

[Comment From JayJay: ]

Good to hear.

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:57 Jay

7:57

[Comment From louisianahotsauce13@yahoolouisianahotsauce13@yahoo: ]

Sounds like the same bunch from ESPN that had no respect for LSU !! Ha !!

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:57 louisianahotsauce13@yahoo

7:57

[Comment From FredFred: ]

Those uniforms are so ugly and painful to watch on TV. Whose idea was that?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:57 Fred

7:58

Project Runway maybe?

Sunday February 17, 2008 7:58

8:00

Here's a potentially handy tip though -- I know that after Super Bowls, much of their merchandise goes on sale for drastically reduced prices. We could see the same thing tomorrow with the All-Star merch, so keep your eyes peeled ... if you can stomach the look of it, I mean. :)

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:00

8:01

East up 18-9 with 5:54 to play in the 1st

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:01

8:01

Bill Russell on the big screen -- I'm 6-4, so it takes a lot to impress me height-wise, but that is a big man!

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:01

8:02

[Comment From JayJay: ]

Just got an e-mail fron the Hornets Bee-mail. All merchandise will be 50% off tomorrow from 10-12 at the arena.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:02 Jay

8:02

There ya go again! Thanks for the assist Jay!

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:02

8:03

[Comment From JayJay: ]

All-Star merchadise only.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:03 Jay

8:03

Nash's outlet to AI was unbelievable. That dude has some amazing anticipation.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:03

8:04

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Like a Chris Paul All-Star Jersey?!

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:04 Gene - NOLA.com

8:04

Provided they have any left. ;)

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:04

8:06

Come on Scott, go small! Get CP3 in there!

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:06

8:07

Uh oh -- the Used-to-bees are back! These ladies crack me up.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:07

8:09

[Comment From coolwater1570coolwater1570: ]

who will win EAST or the WEST?

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:09 coolwater1570

8:10

There was some talk of this earlier -- the consensus seemed to be the East. I'm not convinced yet, but they are definitely off to a good start.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:10

8:11

[Comment From jfjf: ]

east will win

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:11 jf

8:11

[Comment From christynchristyn: ]

the west isn't looking good, thats the way i like it.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:11 christyn

8:11

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Ludacris, Alyssa Milano, Arnold, T.O. all in the sidelines

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:11 Gene - NOLA.com

8:12

Glad the celebrities are out in force. Every little bit helps the local economy.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:12

8:12

[Comment From KimKim: ]

Do you know if there is anywhere on the web I could actually watch the game

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:12 Kim

8:13

My guess is no ... at least not legally, if you know what I mean. NBA.co. and whatever the heck TNT has for a website would be your best chances, but I don't think either is streaming.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:13

8:14

[Comment From jfjf: ]

with kevin garnett,ray allen,jason kidd around i think they're gonna win by more that 10 points

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:14 jf

8:14

Ah, but Garnett is not playing. Will he help them in spirit?

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:14

8:15

[Comment From jfjf: ]

yeah i think so but he's around right?

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:15 jf

8:17

Yep -- but I'm not sure about a motivational edge. Here's something random: Deion Sanders is in attendance and is being asked local trivia -- this could be entertaining.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:17

8:17

Darn, he got it right. Oh well.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:17

8:18

Archie Manning on the big screen -- crowd goes insane. They love their local heroes here.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:18

8:19

So it's 34-28 East, and while the West has been looking better, they still haven't closed the gap.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:19

8:19

Nice to see David West getting time (and a bucket), but I want to see CP3 too! Bring him out.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:19

8:20

Oh, there he is.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:20

8:20

Woot!

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:20

8:20

Two dimes for Paul.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:20

8:20

[Comment From JayJay: ]

Nice pass CP3!!

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:20 Jay

8:21

CP3 to West -- that's a line I've heard before. :)

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:21

8:23

[Comment From jimmyjimmy: ]

John Hollinger at espn.com said that he heard snippets involving a New Orleans and Denver trade. Hear anything like that?

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:23 jimmy

8:23

I've heard Chicago rumors, but nothing involving Denver to date.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:23

8:23

I'll keep an ear out though.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:23

8:24

[Comment From Seat FillersSeat Fillers: ]

NBA is using seat fillers in the lower bowl

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:24 Seat Fillers

8:25

[Comment From Seat FillersSeat Fillers: ]

I only mention it becuase someone mentioned earier that the attendance looked thin.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:25 Seat Fillers

8:26

Can't say that I'm making out anything of the sort -- though seeing as how they do that sort of thing at the Oscars, I wouldn't be too surprised. Nevertheless, the crowd is looking pretty good ... especially in the lower bowl.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:26

8:26

[Comment From jimmyjimmy: ]

must be an OKC fan

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:26 jimmy

8:27

Could be, though you've got to think the Sonics are almost a done deal for OKC now after Stern's comments yesterday.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:27

8:28

That really sucks for fans in Seattle.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:28

8:29

[Comment From nevilledognevilledog: ]

there will be some negative or anti-nola bloggers on here... This event has been great. Can we just enjoy it without all the faux experts? Take the night off guys. You can bash Nola from where ever you live another time...

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:29 nevilledog

8:30

I'll agree with that -- there will always be negative to find if we look for it. Tonight is more about a celebration of basketball in New Orleans.

And on that note, CP3 is up to six assists (and four points)

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:30

8:31

make that seven points

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:31

8:31

[Comment From j sj s: ]

yea that kermit ruffins did an awesome job

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:31 j s

8:33

[Comment From ronaldronald: ]

it would be nice if Kermit Ruffins could go platinum because of this

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:33 ronald

8:34

Well, it has become a spectacular dunk fest -- thanks in part to Dwight Howard. That guy has become a superstar almost overnight. He's been dominating almost since he came into the league, but this weekend he has become the talk of everyone. I could see him entering the MVP discussion very soon.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:34

8:35

T.O. gets shown on the big screen and the entire crowd boos him. Gotta love Saints fans.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:35

8:36

[Comment From jimmyjimmy: ]

awesome

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:36 jimmy

8:37

[Comment From JayJay: ]

any current saints' players sightings at the game?

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:37 Jay

8:38

They're trying to keep a low profile if they're here.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:38

8:39

Though I do wonder how many of the Saints could dunk it. I'd like to see Marques Colston and leapin' Martin Gramatica in a dunk contest

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:39

8:39

[Comment From ericeric: ]

pretty good show

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:39 eric

8:39

AI with a sweet wraparound assist

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:39

8:40

East leads 64-57 with 2:39 to play.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:40

8:40

[Comment From daviddavid: ]

martin gramatica would look like a little boy out there. hes so small

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:40 david

8:40

Yeah, but his vertical after making a field goal is insane! He'd be like Spud Webb out there.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:40

8:42

[Comment From daviddavid: ]

he should at least get a tighter fitting uniform. the first game he was in, he looked as though he was wearing charles grants uniform

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:42 david

8:42

LOL - true.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:42

8:43

Hugo and SuperHugo are in the building -- SuperHugo had the craziest dunk of all the mascots in the pregame, so it's good to see he's still bringing it, relative to the rest of the league.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:43

8:44

[Comment From daviddavid: ]

i thought the music selection for the all star weekend was awesome

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:44 david

8:44

Yeah, we got tons of Kermit love a little earlier. Rebirth was great.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:44

8:45

[Comment From daniel pdaniel p: ]

you are right. kermit Ruffins was awesome. i hope he makes some money from this

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:45 daniel p

8:47

[Comment From Sarah JSarah J: ]

does it seem like all the music from new orleans comes from Basin street records

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:47 Sarah J

8:47

The great thing about the All-Star game is that no matter who your favorite player is, he is guaranteed to have a fantastic statline at the end of the game -- with the teams on pace to score nearly 300 total points, everyone can't help but do something right.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:47

8:48

Paul and West are doing well, but then again, so is everyone else.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:48

8:49

[Comment From jonjon: ]

put in yao ming..byron scott is a racist

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:49 jon

8:49

I hope that was a joke.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:49

8:50

Ming didn't do a whole lot, but at least he didn't have a goose egg like Kobe (who, granted, had a solid excuse)

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:50

8:51

[Comment From JacobJacob: ]

ur right sarah. Basin street does an awesome job. Jon cleary is one of my favorite musicians in the city

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:51 Jacob

8:53

Paul has 7 points, 6 assists and a rebound. West has 4 points and an assist.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:53

8:53

Haltime entertainment -- Connick Jr.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:53

8:53

[Comment From JayJay: ]

i hope that was a joke also, because I saw Byron Scott yesterday at the NBA Jam speaking to a youth team made up primarily of players of Asian descent.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:53 Jay

8:54

I think it was Jay -- sometime sarcasm doesnt work in cyberspace. :)

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:54

8:56

I went to the Super Bowl in Detroit, and the halftime show was the Rolling Stones. It was a good show, but there was a large outcry over the lack of support for local musicians ... just another example of the NFL not being able to get out of its own way sometimes. This is the perfect contrast to that -- lots of great local acts representing themselves and New Orleans wonderfully.

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:56

8:57

[Comment From JacobJacob: ]

kermit ruffins is the greatest

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:57 Jacob

8:57

[Comment From JayJay: ]

Crank it up Harry!!! No cookie cutter half-time here in New Orleans!

Sunday February 17, 2008 8:57 Jay

9:00

[Comment From JacobJacob: ]

that double piano is awesome. it would be nice to have Henry Butler (also in basin street) to be in the mix. hes one of the best piano players. besides dr john hasnt lived in nola for the longest time

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:00 Jacob

9:01

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

ivan is awesome

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:01 rachael perl

9:02

James and Howard are the scoring leaders from the first half -- 12 apiece.

Unbelievably, LeBron also is the leading assist man with 7 (narrowly topping Paul's 6).

Even more unbelievably, LeBron is also the leading rebounder (tied with Boozer with 6).

In short, LeBron James is God.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:02

9:05

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

behind cp3 lebron is ok

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:05 rachael perl

9:06

I really hope Paul wins the MVP award if he keeps this pace up ... he'll definitely deserve it.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:06

9:06

[Comment From chuckchuck: ]

who are these musicians? no one outside of new orleans know who they are? couldn't they have gotten U2 or someone big?..heck, put in ludacris.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:06 chuck

9:07

Not a lot of people in here will agree with you chuck! Just about everyone is really enjoying the performances tonight.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:07

9:08

[Comment From JayJay: ]

it would not have been "an All-Star game in New Orleans" any other way.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:08 Jay

9:09

I agree with that -- a local event like this should showcase local acts -- it gives the rest of the nation a little taste of the culture here.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:09

9:10

And if any community could use some positive light shed its way, it is New Orleans.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:10

9:12

[Comment From nevilledognevilledog: ]

If you ask U2 who's in their CD player right now, they'll say these guys playing piano on TV right now. That's not hypebole either (Toussaint, Dr.John and the Nevilles are probably in their CD player right now)..

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:12 nevilledog

9:12

Well said.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:12

9:12

[Comment From kennykenny: ]

after the superbowl wardrobe malfunction, the nfl and nba has gone with the "old dudes" musicians...

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:12 kenny

9:12

Also well said.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:12

9:12

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

yea chuck ur totally wrong. anybody can see u2 or green day perform in there own city, but to see someone like Kermit Ruffins perform is a real treat. He can really show people what new orleans is about. if anybosy disagrees with Kermit Ruffins not showcasing what NOLA is about then please say so

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:12 rachael perl

9:13

Rachael Perl is ready to throw down folks!

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:13

9:15

I liked the performances we saw tonight and thought they were very appropriate, but that's just me.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:15

9:16

As for the basketball, it has been pretty entertaining as well.

I prefer a smidge of defense, but I'll take a dunkfest too.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:16

9:17

East leads 74-65 as we start the second half.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:17

9:18

[Comment From jacobjacob: ]

it would be nice if the west could win by a huge margin

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:18 jacob

9:18

Ming for 3??? That would have brought the roof down.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:18

9:20

Woot, someone scored! This thing has been turning into a celebration of slop

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:20

9:21

[Comment From RichRich: ]

how is the atmosphere in the arena? cheering or just sitting around waiting for something exciting?

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:21 Rich

9:22

Things have mellowed quite a bit. The crowd is very much waiting for something to cheer about.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:22

9:22

[Comment From richard of philippinesrichard of philippines: ]

the slamdunk was so exciting!

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:22 richard of philippines

9:22

Agreed! Howard's Superman dunk was phenomenal.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:22

9:23

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

This appears to be turning into an actual game now

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:23 Gene - NOLA.com

9:23

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Or at least Im seeing some more defense

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:23 Gene - NOLA.com

9:23

And James throws it down again -- he is owning this game.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:23

9:24

[Comment From richard of philippinesrichard of philippines: ]

ive been watching slamdunk contests for years. . yesterday was the greatest so far. .

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:24 richard of philippines

9:25

What was your favorite dunk? The Superman was fantastic, but I think my favorite was when he bounced it off the back of the backboard.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:25

9:25

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

The heat should trade Marion to the Cavs for some picks. (I really just want to see Lebron with another solid player)

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:25 Gene - NOLA.com

9:26

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Lebron and Marion could make a run

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:26 Gene - NOLA.com

9:26

I could get onboard with that ... though seriously the rest of his team isn't bad per se. Just sort of meh.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:26

9:26

[Comment From richard of philippinesrichard of philippines: ]

yeah! his first dunk was the best! it should have been the final finishing dunk!

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:26 richard of philippines

9:27

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Meh is a perfect description

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:27 Gene - NOLA.com

9:27

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Chris Paul appears to have settled down

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:27 Gene - NOLA.com

9:28

He looked a little nervous at first, but he had some really nifty assists after.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:28

9:28

If it weren't for LeBron, he'd be near the top of the list for game MVP honors.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:28

9:29

LeBron 19, 8 and 6 -- that is sick.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:29

9:30

East only up 98-87 thanks to a nice run by the West -- they're hanging around despite the dynamic performances of James and Howard.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:30

9:31

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

If the Hornets pull off a Number 1 or 2 seed I think Paul could win league mvp if not West MVP

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:31 Gene - NOLA.com

9:32

There are plenty of people around the world (not just in New Orleans) who would love to see that happen. Paul really is getting his due from his peers and fans.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:32

9:32

And another assist for Paul ... up to 8 now.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:32

9:35

Make it 9 -- and West has 6 and 4. The local boys are showing they belong.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:35

9:37

Some guy got into an argument over some sort of silly thing with another group a few seats down from me and the man got pinned to the wall by two of New Orleans' finest. They aren't tolerating any crap tonight.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:37

9:38

It would be rather dumb to get yourself arrested and thrown out of a game like this ... couldn't you wait until the game ended? I'm just sayin'.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:38

9:42

[Comment From JayJay: ]

You are right. With Monday being a holiday, it will be Tuesday before you get out of lock up.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:42 Jay

9:43

So is Chris Bosh going to put on a cowboy hat if he wins this thing? That would be fun to watch.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:43

9:44

As the fourth gets ready to kick off, a parade has broken out on the court. Gotta love that.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:44

9:44

East leads 106-93 with 12 to play.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:44

9:47

Paul with 9 and 9 -- man, he's so good ... if you lose focus for a second, he puts up three more assists and a bucket without you even realizing it.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:47

9:48

James update: 21 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists and one new fanboy (me)

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:48

9:49

Double-double for Paul -- 11 and 10!

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:49

9:50

And the West cuts it to 108-103! Nice to see him having a major impact!

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:50

9:50

[Comment From JayJay: ]

CP3 for MVP!!!

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:50 Jay

9:52

Jet Li is in the house -- I want to see him kick T.O. in the head.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:52

9:53

[Comment From JimmyJimmy: ]

How was the halftime show? I missed the whole thing.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:53 Jimmy

9:53

Good. Not as good as the pregame show, but still great.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:53

9:54

The West has found an awesome lineup -- CP3 is taking this game over.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:54

9:54

[Comment From daviddavid: ]

finally its tied

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:54 david

9:55

CP3, Dirk, Duncan, Roy and Stoudemire

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:55

9:56

[Comment From daviddavid: ]

cps is mvp

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:56 david

9:56

West is up 114-112, and the biggest reason is the play of Paul. He is getting it done in a big way.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:56

9:59

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

i hope this game increases the attndance at hornets games in the future.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:59 rachael perl

9:59

Good observation Rachael. I don't know if it will make an impact, but it sure can't hurt.

Sunday February 17, 2008 9:59

10:00

[Comment From JimmyJimmy: ]

i think it wil

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:00 Jimmy

10:00

The Arena was filling up a LOT better the last couple of weeks, so that bodes well more than anything else I'd say.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:00

10:00

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

i kno it will improve the attendance. i think chuck norris said so

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:00 rachael perl

10:00

That makes it a complete lock then.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:00

10:01

[Comment From KimKim: ]

Noooo

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:01 Kim

10:01

[Comment From KimKim: ]

C'mon East!!!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:01 Kim

10:01

We finally have ourselves a game, don't we? I'm glad this thing got competitive.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:01

10:02

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

Steve Nash is wearing shoes made entirely from recycled materials

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:02 Gene - NOLA.com

10:02

Gene with the random facts! Gotta love it!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:02

10:02

[Comment From BrianBrian: ]

CP3 should win the MVP, he's brought back the west

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:02 Brian

10:02

[Comment From Gene - NOLA.comGene - NOLA.com: ]

They are by Nike and are called "trash talk". Random but I felt that was interesting

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:02 Gene - NOLA.com

10:03

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

it was interesting. thank you gene for your knowledge

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:03 rachael perl

10:03

I am convinced that the more Dirk shoots, the worse the West's chances get.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:03

10:04

He should be getting the Hoosiers "Ollie" treatment

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:04

10:04

[Comment From JayJay: ]

these guys are playing for the win now.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:04 Jay

10:04

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

paul is amazing

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:04 rachael perl

10:04

Paul with 13 and 13 now. This game is getting fun!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:04

10:04

[Comment From BrianBrian: ]

How scary would a backcourt of CP3 and Brandon Roy be?

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:04 Brian

10:05

Ray Allen is going nuts. He can't miss.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:05

10:05

East back up 125-122

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:05

10:06

Roy is having a great game too -- I might take Allen over Roy, but you can't fault either choice.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:06

10:07

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

How is Kobe doing?

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:07 Guest

10:07

Two minutes, one rebound, no points. That about sum it up?

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:07

10:07

[Comment From BrianBrian: ]

Somebody guard Jesus Shuttlesworth!!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:07 Brian

10:07

[Comment From daviddavid: ]

since new years, there has been something big in nola almost every other week

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:07 david

10:09

It is an event town. We're just about knee-deep in festival season now and college baseball starts next week ... then the Zephyrs and VooDoo kick off. Always something to do in NOLA!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:09

10:09

CP3 for 3 -- woo, woo, woo!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:09

10:10

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

jazz fest is going to be awesome

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:10 rachael perl

10:10

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

there is no defense in these games.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:10 rachael perl

10:10

True, but that's part of the appeal I think.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:10

10:11

At least that's what I'm told.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:11

10:11

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

o for sure it is, it wouldnt be as exciting

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:11 rachael perl

10:12

Man, Paul was looking like MVP -- the crowd was chanting "MVP" even -- then James and Wade have seperate sick buckets, and the thing looks like it's the East's to win.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:12

10:12

[Comment From marvinmarvin: ]

how about KG? what's his stats like?

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:12 marvin

10:12

Everyone loves a comedian.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:12

10:12

[Comment From JayJay: ]

This game is capping off a great all-star weekend.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:12 Jay

10:13

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

allen is going to be mvp now

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:13 rachael perl

10:13

I think James gets it if the East wins -- they look at the statline more than the late-game impact.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:13

10:13

[Comment From BrianBrian: ]

At least the game was close and not a blowout like last year in Vegas

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:13 Brian

10:14

Final score: East 134, West 128.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:14

10:14

[Comment From JayJay: ]

OK Hornets fans see you at the Dallas game - section 120!!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:14 Jay

10:14

[Comment From rachael perlrachael perl: ]

its been fun

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:14 rachael perl

10:16

Indeed! I echo everyone's sentiments about this being a great weekend. It's not a huge economic booster like a Sugar Bowl, but in terms of image, this whole event was fantastic. New Orleans comes out of this looking great.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:16

10:16

And our Hornets represented themselves very well.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:16

10:18

Paul finished with 16 points, 14 assists, and 4 steals.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:18

10:19

LeBron James with the MVP

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:19

10:20

[Comment From mikchiefermikchiefer: ]

Labron is huge!!!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:20 mikchiefer

10:20

[Comment From mikchiefermikchiefer: ]

Im glad he won, he pleases the crowd. He won for the last two times. and always thinks everyone. He said if he didnt win ray Allen should have won

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:20 mikchiefer

10:21

West finished with 6 points and 4 rebounds.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:21

10:22

James with 27 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists. Kerazy!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:22

10:22

[Comment From mikchiefermikchiefer: ]

what about Howard and the dunk contest!!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:22 mikchiefer

10:24

[Comment From AbuAbu: ]

Where did Devin West go to High School?

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:24 Abu

10:25

A quick search says he went to Garner/Hargrave Military.

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:25

10:26

I'll take that at face value for the time being. :)

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:26

10:27

[Comment From KimKim: ]

Whoo Hoo, the East win....

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:27 Kim

10:28

Yep. Your boys got it done late.

Anyway, thanks to everyone for coming along for the ride tonight! We got some great comments and questions, and the whole experience was definitely a good one. Be sure to check NOLA.com for future chat/blogs as the Hornets season continues to roll on. It's been fun -- til next time!

Sunday February 17, 2008 10:28

10:29

This Live Blog has now ended.