The basketball world is abuzz with excitement as the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend kicks off at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. 

The festivities commenced with the Rising Stars Challenge, where second-year sensation Bennedict Mathurin of the Indiana Pacers stole the spotlight. Leading Team Jalen to victory, Mathurin’s stellar performance earned him the prestigious MVP award, 

In the Celebrity Game, it was Team Shannon who emerged victorious, led by Micah Parsons, the standout linebacker of the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Parsons’ standout performance earned him the coveted MVP honors.

As the All-Star events continue, fans can look forward to Sunday’s lineup, which includes the Skills Challenge, 3-Point Contest, Stephen vs. Sabrina 3-Point Challenge, and the highly anticipated Slam Dunk Contest. All eyes will be on Damian Lillard of the Milwaukee Bucks, the favorite to defend his title in the long-distance shootout, and Mac McClung of the G League, who aims to repeat his success in the dunk contest.

The pinnacle of the weekend’s festivities culminates with the 73rd NBA All-Star Game, featuring the traditional East vs. West format. Basketball icons like LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers will make history with his record-breaking 20th All-Star appearance, while newcomers like Jalen Brunson, Paolo Banchero, Tyrese Maxey, and Scottie Barnes are set to make their highly anticipated debuts on the grand stage.