Mathurin Earns MVP Honors at NBA Rising Stars Game
Bennedict Mathurin shone brightly during All-Star Weekend, clinching the MVP title at the NBA Rising Stars game, showcasing his skills and thrilling the crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Indiana Pacers guard led Team Jalen to victory, scoring 18 points and making the game-winning shot in the semifinal against Team Tamika. He then contributed to a balanced effort in the final against Team Detlef.
The revamped Rising Stars format, introduced in 2023, divides rookies, sophomores, and select G Leaguers into four teams. Teams compete in semifinals to reach a target score of 40, with the final decided by reaching 25 points.
In the final match, Team Jalen took an early lead and maintained control, securing a 26-13 win with back-to-back 3-pointers from Jordan Hawkins and Jalen Williams. This victory marked Mathurin’s second Rising Stars win, following his participation with Team Pau in 2023.
Mathurin, supported by teammates Tyrese Haliburton, Myles Turner, and Obi Toppin on the sidelines, expressed joy at receiving MVP chants from the crowd. He shared his ambition to be an NBA MVP someday, relishing the early career recognition.
Reflecting on his performance, Mathurin mentioned the motivation of playing in his city, asserting his determination to win. Despite missing crucial free throws in the semifinal, he redeemed himself with a decisive turnaround jumper.
While Victor Wembanyama’s Team Pau fell short in the semifinals, Wembanyama, who showcased his talent with 11 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks, will participate in the Skills Challenge. Matas Buzelis of G League Ignite, eligible for the 2024 NBA Draft, sealed the win for Team Detlef with a game-winning shot.
Overall, the Rising Stars game provided a platform for emerging talents like Mathurin and Buzelis to display their skills, setting the stage for their promising futures in the NBA.
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