The New York Knicks had a strong presence at this year’s All-Star festivities, with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns both suiting up for the midseason showcase. Brunson represented Team Stripes, while Towns took the floor for Team World. But when the dust settled at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, it was Team Stars that walked away with the trophy-and a couple of rising stars who stole the show.
Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards earned MVP honors, powering Team Stars to victory with the kind of dynamic performance that’s quickly becoming his signature. Right alongside him in the spotlight? San Antonio’s 7-foot-4 phenom Victor Wembanyama, who nearly carried Team World on his own and left a lasting impression-on fans, opponents, and even fellow All-Stars.
“I think Wemby’s a leader,” Brunson said after the game. “The way he carried himself is fantastic for this game.
I think he’s done a great job, and you see what his impact is on and off the court around this game. So he's doing what he does.”
That’s high praise from a veteran like Brunson, and it’s easy to see why. Wembanyama, still just 22 and already in his second All-Star appearance, put up a monster stat line: 33 points on a hyper-efficient 10-of-13 shooting, eight rebounds, and two blocks across two games. He brought energy, intensity, and a competitive edge that stood out-even in a setting where defense is usually optional.
And make no mistake, Wemby wasn’t treating this like a glorified shootaround. Before the tournament tipped off, he made it clear he wasn’t just there for the vibes.
He wanted to compete. That mindset carried over into the games, where he played with purpose and nearly dragged Team World into the final.
In fact, he had the last shot-a deep three that would’ve forced overtime against Team Stripes-but it just missed the mark.
Brunson, meanwhile, had a solid showing of his own. The Knicks point guard logged 13 points, three rebounds, four assists, and two steals across three games. He did what he’s known for: steady play, smart decisions, and leadership that doesn’t always show up in the box score.
Jalen Brunson agrees with Anthony Edwards and says Victor Wembanyama set the tone for the intensity of the All-Star Game 🙌
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 16, 2026
“I mean, yeah. I think Wemby’s a leader. The way he carries himself is fantastic for this game. I think he’s done a great job, and you see what his impact… https://t.co/yOCqsqKPoM pic.twitter.com/DYzrcmrFm1
While the All-Star trophy didn’t land in New York’s hands, the weekend still offered a glimpse of how bright the future looks for the league-and how respected players like Brunson and Wembanyama are among their peers. It also gave Knicks fans a reason to feel good heading into the stretch run.
Now it’s back to business for Brunson and the Knicks, who return to the court Thursday night against the Detroit Pistons. With the All-Star break in the rearview, the playoff push begins-and Brunson looks more than ready to lead the charge.