The NBA’s All-Star Weekend is always full of spectacle, but one of its most intriguing events is also one of its most forward-looking: the Rising Stars Challenge. This annual showcase puts the spotlight on the league’s youngest talent - first- and second-year players who’ve already started to carve out their place in the league - and gives fans a glimpse of what the future of basketball might look like.
This year’s Rising Stars Challenge is set up as a four-team mini-tournament, with each squad coached by a former NBA star. It’s not just about flash and dunks - though there will be plenty of those - it’s about seeing how these rising names handle the big stage, compete against their peers, and show off the skills that got them here in the first place.
Let’s break down the rosters ahead of Friday night’s tournament in Los Angeles.
Team Melo
Coach: Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony knows a thing or two about making an early splash in the league, and his squad is loaded with young guards who can score from anywhere. Leading the backcourt is Reed Sheppard of the Houston Rockets, a crafty playmaker with a high basketball IQ. He’s joined by Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle, both from the Spurs, who bring a mix of length and two-way potential.
Jeremiah Fears of the Pelicans adds more firepower to the perimeter, while Collin Murray-Boyles of the Raptors gives them a versatile forward who can defend multiple positions. Holding down the paint is Donovan Clingan, a center from the Trail Blazers with a big frame and soft touch around the rim.
Notably, Cooper Flagg - one of the most hyped prospects in recent memory - was originally selected but will sit out due to injury. Ace Bailey of the Jazz steps in as his replacement, bringing athleticism and energy to the frontcourt.
Team T-Mac
Coach: Tracy McGrady
Tracy McGrady’s squad has been hit hard by injuries, but there’s still plenty of talent on the floor. Kon Knueppel of the Hornets headlines the group with his smooth shooting stroke and ability to create off the dribble. Kel’el Ware, the big man from the Heat, gives them a rim protector who can also stretch the floor.
Tre Johnson (Wizards), Jaylon Tyson (Cavaliers), and Cam Spencer (Grizzlies) round out the guard rotation, offering a mix of shot creation and perimeter defense.
Injuries to Alex Sarr and Ajay Mitchell forced some late changes, but the replacements - Bub Carrington (Wizards) and Zaccharie Risacher (Hawks) - bring fresh intrigue. Carrington is a shifty guard with excellent court vision, while Risacher, a long wing with defensive upside, gives this team some needed size and versatility.
Team Vince
Coach: Vince Carter
Vince Carter, the high-flying legend himself, is coaching a group that might just have the most balanced roster in the tournament. V.J. Edgecombe (76ers) brings elite athleticism and scoring instincts to the backcourt, while Derik Queen (Pelicans) offers a polished offensive game in the frontcourt.
Kyshawn George (Wizards) and Matas Buzelis (Bulls) are both long, skilled wings who can make plays on both ends. Egor Dämin (Nets) adds international flair and shooting touch, and the Grizzlies are well represented with Cedric Coward and Jaylen Wells, two players who’ve shown flashes of high-level potential.
This team has length, shooting, and plenty of guys who can switch defensively - a modern NBA build if there ever was one.
Team Austin
Coach: Austin Rivers
Austin Rivers steps into the coaching role with a group that features a mix of G League standouts and NBA hopefuls. Sean East II (Salt Lake City Stars) has been turning heads with his scoring and leadership, while Ron Harper Jr. (Celtics) brings a steady hand and strong defensive instincts.
Yanic Konan Niederhauser (Clippers) and Yang Hansen (Trail Blazers) give this team some size inside, and Alijah Martin (Raptors) and Tristen Newton (Rockets) add perimeter scoring and playmaking.
Injuries to Mac McClung and David Jones Garcia opened the door for Jahmir Young (Heat), who’s been a sparkplug off the bench and could play a key role in this tournament setting.
What to Watch For
This year’s format - a four-team mini-tournament - adds a competitive edge that goes beyond the usual All-Star Weekend exhibition vibe. Players aren’t just out there to entertain; they’re trying to prove they belong. Whether it’s a G Leaguer looking to earn a call-up or a top rookie trying to cement their status, there’s something on the line.
And with former stars like Carmelo, T-Mac, Vince, and Austin Rivers on the sidelines, there’s a mentorship angle that adds even more intrigue. These legends know what it takes to succeed in the league - and now they’re passing on that wisdom to the next generation.
So while the All-Star Game might get the headlines, don’t sleep on Rising Stars. It’s where the future of the league takes center stage - and if history is any indication, we’re going to be seeing a lot more from these names in the years to come.