The Rising Stars Challenge is always a chance for the NBA’s young talent to shine under the All-Star Weekend spotlight-and this year, all eyes in Brooklyn will be on Egor Demin.
The 19-year-old rookie guard is the Nets’ lone representative at All-Star Weekend, suiting up for Team Vince, coached by none other than former Nets great Vince Carter. For a franchise in the midst of a rebuild, Demin’s presence on this stage is more than symbolic-it’s a chance to showcase a promising piece of Brooklyn’s future.
Demin’s been quietly productive in his first NBA season, averaging 10.8 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. What’s really jumped out, though, is his efficiency from deep-he’s knocking down nearly 40% of his threes, a number that speaks to both his shooting mechanics and his poise under pressure. For a teenager adjusting to NBA defenses, that’s no small feat.
Team Vince will have a slightly different look heading into Friday’s contest. Memphis forward Cedric Coward, originally slated to play, has been ruled out with right knee soreness. In his place, San Antonio rookie Carter Bryant steps in-a late addition, but one who could still make an impact.
Bryant hasn’t had a huge role in the Spurs’ rotation this season, but lately, he’s been finding his rhythm. Over his last six games, he’s averaging 9.0 points, 3.8 boards, and 1.2 assists while shooting 44% from three-point range. That kind of shooting touch could fit nicely alongside Demin in a fast-paced, guard-driven event like the Rising Stars Challenge.
Still, there’s no sugarcoating the loss of Coward. The 22-year-old has been a steady contributor for Memphis, putting up 13.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. He’s a versatile forward who brings energy and efficiency-shooting nearly 47% from the field-and his absence takes away a key piece of Team Vince’s frontcourt.
But that just means more responsibility for the likes of Demin and Bryant. With Team Vince going up against squads led by Carmelo Anthony, Tracy McGrady, and Austin Reaves, the competition will be stiff. These games may be exhibitions, but they tend to get competitive quickly-especially when pride, bragging rights, and a national audience are on the line.
For Demin, it’s a chance to show what he can do on a bigger stage. He’s already turned heads in Brooklyn with his smooth game and high basketball IQ. Now, under the guidance of a Hall of Famer in Vince Carter, he’ll have an opportunity to take another step forward-this time, in front of the entire league.