Highlighting the weekend was the return of the Rookies-Sophomores-Juniors (RSJ) vs. Veterans format of the All-Star game, after being dropped following the 2001 event.[2]
Mark Macapagal and Jonas Villanueva achieved three-peats as they were again victorious in the Three-point Shootout and Obstacle Challenge, respectively.
The players from Talk 'N Text Tropang Texters were pulled out from their respective events, days before the start of the weekend.[3]
Asi Taulava of Meralco replaced Ranidel de Ocampo in the line-up because the entire Talk 'N Text team chose not to participate at the All-star Weekend.
Chot Reyes was replaced by Ryan Gregorio as Veterans coach because the entire Talk 'N Text team chose not to participate at the All-star Weekend.
Mark Caguioa of Team Veterans did not play because of an eye injury.