The highly anticipated showdown between Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren didn't materialize in the NBA Rising Stars game, as Mac McClung and the G League Ignite squad took the spotlight. Instead, it was Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin who emerged as the hometown hero, leading Team Jalen to victory.
Mathurin's stellar performance, scoring 18 points and hitting the game-winning shot in the semifinal against Team Tamika, earned him the MVP title, accompanied by chants from the enthusiastic Gainbridge Fieldhouse crowd.
The new Rising Stars format, introduced in 2023, divides rookies, sophomores, and select G Leaguers into four teams, playing semifinals to a target score of 40 and a final to 25. In the final, Team Jalen, led by Mathurin, secured a 26-13 victory with a commanding lead, featuring key contributions from players like Jordan Hawkins and Jalen Williams. This marked Mathurin's second Rising Stars victory, adding to his previous win with Team Pau in 2023.
Despite missing crucial free throws in the semifinal, Mathurin redeemed himself with a turnaround jumper for the win. Reflecting on his performance, Mathurin expressed the significance of representing his city and bringing the victory home.
Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama and Team Pau fell short in their semifinal against Team Detlef, with G League Ignite forward Matas Buzelis sealing the win with a clutch shot. Buzelis, eligible for the 2024 NBA Draft, showcased his talent and excitement for the future.
While Wembanyama faced disappointment in the Rising Stars game, he remains engaged in the weekend's events, gearing up for the Skills Challenge on Saturday night. Despite the mixed emotions of competition, Wembanyama expressed satisfaction in accomplishing one of his goals during the weekend.
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