Anthony Edwards claimed NBA All-Star MVP honours after leading his “Stars” team to victory in the league’s revamped mini-tournament at the Intuit Dome.
The Minnesota Timberwolves guard powered a dominant 47-21 win over the “Stripes,” a squad featuring LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard.
The NBA introduced its fourth All-Star format in four years, pitting two teams of Americans against a World team in a bid to increase competitiveness. The round-robin stage delivered drama, with all three games decided in thrilling fashion before a one-sided final.
Round-Robin Highlights
Edwards forced overtime in the opener with a clutch three-pointer before Scottie Barnes secured a 37-36 win over the World with a late basket.
De’Aaron Fox then hit a buzzer-beater to lift the Stripes in the second matchup.
In the final round-robin game, Kawhi Leonard erupted for 31 points, sealing a 48-45 victory with a decisive three-pointer in the closing seconds.
Stars Cruise In Championship Game
The championship game proved far more straightforward. Edwards set the tone early as the Stars cruised to a 47-21 victory to secure the Kobe Bryant MVP trophy.
The 24-year-old finished with 13 points in the first game, 11 in the second, and eight in the final.
When asked about his most satisfying moment, Edwards replied: “Probably beating the World team.”
All-Star Atmosphere
Former President Barack Obama was among those in attendance and received a standing ovation.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised the players’ effort, while Kevin Durant said:
“It felt good to be out there with greats, new and old… Hopefully we just build upon this and the weekend becomes more and more competitive.”
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