NBA Breaks for All-Star Game

Feb. 9 -- Basketball fever is sweeping the nation'scapital this weekend as the city hosts the All-Star Game. Thesport's biggest names and celebrities, including singer JessicaSimpson and rapper Snoop Dogg, are popping up all over town.

Activities have been taking place all week but things really gotunder way Thursday with the opening of the "Jam Session." It's ahands-on look at the game where fans also get to meet some of theirfavorite players.

Tickets for Sunday's big game are sold out, but don't despair.There are many other activities going on. Nike will host a slam-dunk competition at Spingarn High School today. Former GeorgetownUniversity star Allen Iverson, along with Kobe Bryant and Chris Webber, will bemixing it up at the Platinum club tonight.

The NBA is also doing some good for the community by fixing upbasketball courts, refurbishing a home and helping to clean up alocal school.

The Mailman Will Deliver

Mr. Malone is going to Washington. And unlike last year, the Mailman plans to relish the All-Star break.

Karl Malone and John Stockton, the heart and soul of the UtahJazz for the past 16 seasons, will take part in the festivities surrounding the All-Star Game.

The 37-year-old Malone is a Western Conference reserve whileStockton, 38, will be honored as a former All-Star Game MVP.

Malone, a 16-year veteran who is playing in his 13th All-StarGame, didn't have much fun last year, stewing because fans failedto make him a starter.

Last year, he skipped the interview sessionsleading up to the game in Oakland, Calif., taking his family totheir Arkansas ranch instead. He showed up to play in the game, but logged just three minutes and missed his onlyshot after complaining about a sore back.

But as far as Malone is concerned, that's history.

A kinder, gentler Mailman is making the trip to Washington. Hesays he's excited to see landmarks and hang out with UtahSen. Orrin Hatch.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.