But doth suffer a sea-change
Into something rich and strange.

Shakespeare wasn’t known to adequately describe NBA All-Star Weekend’s, but as is the case this week in Toronto, his words certainly ring true.

From the Warriors’ first All-Star since 1997 in David Lee to Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson starting last year to Draymond Green this season, there’s been an ever-growing sea-change flowing throughout the NBA.

Golden State is the hottest team in sports, chasing a record once thought of as insurmountable. Crowds suffocated Curry at the Sheraton Centre Hotel in downtown Toronto on Friday afternoon, with Thompson and first-time All-Star Green gaining circles larger than the likes of LaMarcus Aldridge, Paul Millsap and DeMarcus Cousins.

Progression was the theme in the lower concourse on Friday, with the largest crowds surrounding the retiring Kobe Bryant. Curry wasn’t far behind, with LeBron James the clear third. If there was any doubt of Curry hoisting the rights to the esteemed “face of the NBA” title once Bryant hangs it up, they’ve been obliterated this season.

“Basketball is a team game, and to have two other guys represent the full squad and all that we’ve accomplished is huge,” said Curry of his fellow All-Star teammates. “We’re going to enjoy the experience…Dub Nation is well represented.”

Out with the old, in with the best, as crowds surrounding Curry surpassed those of LeBron James. Questions to Thompson and Green ranged from chasing the Bulls’ 72-10 record to what the Chinese market means to them were asked.

Thompson was his usual serene, calm self while Green never swayed from what has made him one of the most endearing personalities in the league. Both answered even the most outrageous questions with the usual professionalism and friendliness Warriors’ fans have gotten to know them by.

The flock of local, national and foreign media that was running, falling and bumping into each other downstairs of the Sheraton was a sight to behold. “Don’t get in my shot!” was heard when Jimmy Butler was answering a question about his health. Mumbles of anger and disgust were frequent by cameraman also. It was a circus, but one the NBA has grown to adopt over the last few seasons.

The newest era of NBA superstars have been shining the last couple seasons, but the rise of the Warriors only heightens such a threat to the old regime. Curry being the highlight, talents such as Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler, DeMarcus Cousins amongst others are the names of the latest age of hoops. Bryant, James, Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony have succumbed to the Vine-era stars of today and tomorrow.

“This is a special moment, said Green. “It’s an elite group of guys, and to be one of these guys here, it’s something I could have never imagined doing.”

WarriorsWorld has been in attendance the last four All-Star Weekend’s, and the change and tone of the league has been transforming since. Like the Warriors, the NBA has seen faces change, talents rise and veterans taking supporting roles. The Bay Area has seen plenty of highlights the last two seasons, but it’s time for Toronto to get another glimpse at what makes this team so special.