Ayton makes All-Star Weekend debut, scores 15 in Rising Stars Challenge

Phoenix Suns rookie center and No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton got his first taste of All-Star Weekend on Friday night, playing for Team World in the Rising Stars Challenge.

In no surprise, the open-court and exhibition format was a good spot for Ayton to be productive in.

Playing 22 minutes, Ayton had 15 points, eight rebounds and five assists.

The high-scoring affair didn’t bring much defensive intensity or defense at all for that matter.

Ayton showed off his touch in the game, but not from the 3-point line. He attempted four and was unable to get one to go down.

It was actually his passing and arm on a deep outlet pass and touchdown to Minnesota Timberwolves rookie wing Josh Okogie.

The Big Fella showing off his arm 👀#MTNDEWICERisingStars pic.twitter.com/f53L0jYC5P

— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) February 16, 2019

Ayton has been at his best this season on the offensive glass and he did a bit of that as well, adding some flair with a reverse putback slam.

DA WITH THE REVERSE PUTBACK! 💪#MTNDEWICERisingStars pic.twitter.com/FYFDZi6MNd

— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) February 16, 2019

Ayton had some support, with teammate Devin Booker one of the many players in attendance. Booker will be competing in Saturday’s 3-point contest.

⭐️ Courtside for #MTNDEWICERisingStars! ⭐️@DevinBook x @KarlTowns x @Dloading x @SDinwiddie_25 pic.twitter.com/4kTghVdrCU

— NBA (@NBA) February 16, 2019

Lakers second-year forward Kyle Kuzma was named the MVP of the game. He finished with 35 points, six rebounds and two assists.

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