NBA All-Star weekend comes to an end

CLEVELAND — The 2022 NBA All-Star weekend put Cleveland in the international spotlight. Millions of people from around the world tuned in to watch some of the NBA’s best players battle it out Sunday night. The game was broadcasted to 215 countries and territories in 60 languages.  

“We’re really really thrilled about that to have Cleveland back on the world stage,” said Matt Brabants, senior vice president of International Content Partnership for the NBA. “It’s an incredible opportunity for Cleveland to shine once again.” 

The weekend brought tens of thousands of basketball fans to Cleveland and is estimated to have brought in $100 million of revenue to the city. 

“I think it’ll show the world that we can host these world class events 24/7 year round to make sure we bring more investment back to Cleveland and I want to show the world that Cleveland is truly open for business,” said Justin Bibb, mayor of Cleveland. 

Events like the celebrity game, 3-point and dunk contest, inaugural HBCU Classic and star-studded halftime shows left something for everyone this weekend. 

“Ten out of 10 experience. I would experience it again. I would reverse time to do this again,” said Saphila Fofana, a fan from Team LeBron. “It was so fun, I never want it to end.”

At the main event Sunday night, Team LeBron brought home the win in the 71st All-Star Game, defeating Team Durant 163-160. In total, the teams donated nearly $1 million to northeast Ohio charities.  Team LeBron won $450,000 for the Kent State I Promise Scholars program, while Team Durant won $300,000 for the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

Cleveland put its best foot forward to host the NBA All-Star weekend to prove yet again that it’s an all-star city. The 2023 NBA All-Star Game is set to be played in Salt Lake City, Utah.