The NBA’s All-Star Weekend kicked off Friday with the Rising Stars event, featuring a twist: The winner of the tournament of first- and second-year NBA players (plus a G League representative) advances to participate in Sunday’s All-Star Game.
We’ll grade the competitors in events all weekend, starting with Friday’s teams from the Rising Stars showcase. Check back after Saturday’s events — which feature the skills challenge, three-point contest, and dunk contest — and then Sunday when the All-Star Game takes center stage with a new four-team format.
RISING STARS
Team C, selected and co-coached by Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Chris Mullin, will advance to Sunday’s NBA All-Star Game with WNBA legend Candace Parker taking over as honorary GM of what will become Team Candace.
On experience and talent, this team will be outclassed Sunday. But the players developed strong chemistry during two wins Friday, and if they play hard, they could present a challenge if their opponents (Shaq’s OGs, featuring MVPs Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant and LeBron James) treat Sunday like an exhibition…
