On a promising night filled with excitement, San Antonio Spurs’ Stephon Castle showcased his talent by earning the MVP title at the NBA Rising Stars event, leading Team C to a convincing 25-14 victory over Team G-League at the Chase Center on February 14. Under the guidance of two-time Olympic champion Chris Mullin, Castle tallied 18 points, with 12 of those scored in the championship game, earning him the coveted Rising Stars Trophy as part of the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend festivities.
The revamped format for this year’s All-Star Game invigorated the atmosphere, and the players were eager to showcase their skills. The intensity was palpable in the second semi-final match, where G-League’s Bryce McGowens hit a remarkable game-winning three-pointer, defeating Team M, which included the highly regarded Thompson twins and French prospect Bilal Coulibaly.
In the championship clash, the rookies and sophomores of Team C proved their mettle, finishing the game with a dominant 10-point streak to clinch the win. With this victory, Team C will now be known as Team Candace Parker and will participate in the upcoming NBA All-Star Game mini tournament on Sunday, facing off against Shaquille O’Neal’s OGs, which features stars like LeBron James and local favorite Steph Curry.
After receiving his MVP award, Castle confidently declared to the audience, “Just be ready for us,” sending a clear message to the established All-Stars.
The Rising Stars event was a highlight during the NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco, which also included the Celebrity Game where Team Bonds, led by MVP Rome Flynn, emerged victorious earlier in the day, adding to the festive spirit of the weekend.
With the adrenaline high and young talent shining bright, the NBA is set for an electrifying All-Star Game, promising thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments.