NBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis got underway on Friday night with the Celebrity Game and Rising Stars Challenge. In the opener, Team Shannon held off Team Stephen A. for a 100-91 victory. Later on, Team Jalen defeated Team Detlef in the championship of the Rising Stars Challenge to claim that title.
With the first of three exciting nights now in the books, here’s a look at some of the moments that defined All-Star Friday.
Parsons steals the show in the Celebrity Game
Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons finished third in the NFL Defensive Player of the Year voting earlier this month, but on Friday night he made sure he got his hands on a trophy. The three-time Pro Bowler stole the show at the Celebrity Game and was named MVP.
Parsons was a two-sport star in high school, and once competed against Brooklyn Nets guard Lonnie Walker IV. On Friday, he showed that he still has some skills on the court, as he poured in 37 points and grabbed 16 rebounds to lead Team Shannon to victory.
This is the second consecutive year that an active NFL player has taken MVP honors in the Celebrity Game, and the fourth time overall. Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf earned the honors last year, while Hall of Famer Terrell Owens went back-to-back in the 2008 and 2009 events.
Mathurin has fascinating night that ends with MVP
Indiana Pacers swingman Bennedict Mathurin was named MVP of the Rising Stars Challenge, giving the hometown fans something extra to cheer about. He earned the honor after a truly fascinating night filled with impressive highlights, embarrassing bloopers and a surprising amount of trash talk.
Here’s a quick rundown of Mathurin’s best and worst moments:
‘You can’t guard me’
In the middle of the first game between Team Jalen and Team Tamika, Mathurin suddenly got serious when he confronted Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey and told him, “Even in the Rising Stars game…
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