Ayton makes All-Star Weekend debut, scores 15 in Rising Stars Challenge
Feb 15, 2019, 9:16 PM
Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton (22) in the first half during an NBA basketball game against the Philadelphia 76ers, Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2019, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
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.
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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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