Indiana Pacers are enjoying being the hosts for the 2024 NBA All-Star weekend. The events honor the hard work all of the players put in. But there is another angle. It also allows the host city to showcase what they have to offer and for local fans to show how strong their love and support of basketball is. But it makes it even more fun for home fans when one of their players plays well. Although the crowd will always show interest through this weekend, it’s different. Especially when the player goes on to win a recognized award!
Who do you see as most likely to play in the All-Star game next from this group of players?
Indiana Pacers Rising Star
Team Jalen and Team Tamike squared off against each other in a Friday night matchup. Although the game focuses on emerging talent, multiple multiple names involved showcased their talents. But the Indiana Pacers own Bennedict Mathurin earned the MVP of the 2024 Rising All-Stars game. He led his side over Team Tamike by a score of 40-35. In this game he finished with 18 points He then went on to lead his side in the championship game. Mathurin accounted for 4 total points scored in a 26-23 victory.
He not only put up big numbers, but he razzle-dazzled while doing so. The crowd gave their oos and ahs as he showed off his scoring ability. Often these awards come down to who wants it the most. Other players take this type of game less seriously, understandably. But a true competitor uses every opportunity to measure themselves up to the best. While it may “only” be an exhibition, Mathurin made sure to not let this All-Star weekend platform go to waste.
Indiana Pacers Guard Letting Everyone Know
The shooting guard from Arizona entertained viewers through his play and talk. He notably let Jaden Ivey of the Detroit Pistons know that he couldn’t guard him. And truthfully, no one could tonight. Although he lost a bet with Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic, he still hit big shots.
Throughout the night, a hand in his face did not deter the shots from falling. His behind-the-back layup in transition made its rounds on highlight reels. But the bet later on received a lot of attention. At the free throw line, to ice the game, Mathurin bet $25,000 that he would finish the game. Unfortunately, the Indiana Pacers player would go on to miss both free throws. However, he immediately made up for it by nailing a contested turnaround fadeaway jumper.
Other Rising Star Players From The Evening
Chet Holgram played with the Indiana Pacers shooting guard in the game. However, he took a backseat tonight. However, Scoot Henderson from the Toronto Raptors had a team-high 10 points in the first game. Additionally, Ivey finished with 8 points in the game. But there was a lot of attention on the stars in the other game as well.
San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wembanyama draws attention wherever he goes. But a lot wanted to watch the Frenchman play. Although his team lost, fans enjoyed watching the ease with which he maneuvered on the court. He finished with 11 points. Teammate Brandin Podziemski of the Golden State Warriors dished out four assists.
But the other side ultimately came out with the victory! Miami Heat and Sioux Falls Skyforce player Alondes Williams finished with 11 points. Additionally, Mac McClung of the Orlando Magic and Osceola Magic contributed 12 points in the effort.
On a night that many can overlook, true fans of NBA basketball experienced some exciting play and storylines. But Indiana Pacers Bennedict Mathurin stole the show and left as the deserving MVP.
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Gabriel Enjoys all things sports! Football, soccer, basketball, volleyball. You name it! Huge fan of the Nebraska Huskers and New England Patriots. Even bigger advocate of running the football!
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