The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game was billed as a celebration of the league’s finest, a high-energy showcase meant to highlight the best women’s basketball has to offer. Instead, it’s being remembered as one of the dullest, most uninspired All-Star events in recent memory.

Fans expected something lighthearted yet competitive—fun, not fierce, but still a demonstration of skill and pride. What they got instead was a game so lifeless that “snoozefest” became the evening’s defining label.

Expectations vs. Reality

WNBA fans knew the game wouldn’t be a defensive slugfest. All-Star games rarely are. But this year’s game lacked even the minimum level of hustle and excitement. Players appeared disengaged, settling for deep, low-percentage four-point attempts and putting in barely any defensive effort. The action felt more like a casual shootaround than a professional exhibition.

Many fans watching live—and even some attending in person—simply gave up. A livestreamer covering the event reported real-time reactions from the audience, including one attendee who left early, citing complete boredom.

“I came into the game excited,” one fan wrote in response to a post-event poll. “But it was embarrassing. Bricks, airballs, no effort. Just a joke.”

The Poll Says It All

A post-game fan poll asked a simple question: “How enjoyable was the game itself?” The results were brutal.

5% said they “absolutely loved it.”

18% rated it “so-so.”

A staggering 77% chose “big time bored.”

With nearly 900 votes and hundreds of comments, the overwhelming sentiment was one of disappointment. People felt let down—not just by the lack of competitive fire, but by the message it sent about the state of the league.

“Pay Us More”—But Play First?

Adding to the controversy were the now-infamous “Pay Us More” T-shirts worn by players before the game. What was meant to be a statement about fair compensation was seen by many as tone-deaf in light of the players’ on-court performance.

“The message fell flat,” one fan wrote. “If you’re going to ask for more, show your worth on the court. Don’t sleepwalk through the game.”

Another comment read: “You don’t prove your value by checking out. That’s not how you win over fans or make a case for higher pay.”

Not Just Hardcore Fans Disappointed

While some long-time fans expressed sadness, others new to the WNBA were equally upset. One viewer from the UK said they booked time off work, staying up through the night to watch the game, only to feel massively let down by the quality of play.

“This was my first WNBA All-Star experience, and it may be my last,” they admitted.

Even die-hard supporters, who attend regular season games and defend the league passionately, admitted that they turned the game off midway through. “I didn’t want to see anyone get hurt, sure,” one said, “but there’s a difference between staying safe and not showing up to compete.”

A Missed Opportunity

The league had an opportunity to capitalize on growing interest, especially with rising stars and crossover appeal driving more viewers than ever. But instead of raising the bar, the All-Star Game dropped the ball.

One bright spot? Napheesa Collier (“Fee”) broke the All-Star scoring record with 36 points, and a few individual plays showed flashes of brilliance. But even standout moments couldn’t salvage the overall feeling that fans were watching a glorified scrimmage.

A Message for the WNBA

The takeaway from the 2025 All-Star Game is clear: fans want to be entertained. They’re willing to support the league, defend the players, and celebrate women’s sports. But they expect effort—especially in a game that’s meant to highlight the best of the best.

When the overwhelming majority of your audience walks away feeling ignored or insulted, it’s time for reflection. The WNBA doesn’t need to mimic the NBA’s style or pace—but it must respect its growing fanbase by delivering a product that values competition, fun, and pride in the game.

Next year, it’s not just about who makes the roster—it’s about who shows up to play.