Victor Wembanyama scored 33 points on 10-for-13 shooting in 20 minutes at the NBA All-Star Game. Team World lost both of its games. The first three games of All-Star Weekend were decided by a combined seven points, with one going to overtime. “Wemby set the tone,” Anthony Edwards said. “He came out playing hard, so it’s hard not to match that.”
Wembanyama swatted the opening tip and demanded the ball
Victor Wembanyama set the tone from the start. He swatted the opening tip to teammate Jamal Murray, sprinted down the court, and called for the ball under the rim. He dunked. The sequence established how he intended to play. “I’ve always thought to myself that if I was in there, I’m never stepping onto the court to lose or not care,” Wembanyama said. He shot 77 percent from the field and scored 33 points in 20 minutes of action.
The first three games were decided by seven combined points
The new All-Star format featured three teams: two American squads and one World team. Each played 12-minute games against the others. The first three games were decided by a combined seven points. One went to overtime. The margins were closer than typical All-Star Games. Wembanyama’s intensity influenced how other players approached the event. Edwards credited him directly for raising the competitive level.
Brunson called Wembanyama “a leader”
“I think Wemby’s a leader,” Knicks guard Jalen Brunson said. “The way he carries himself is fantastic for this game.” Wembanyama is 22 years old and in his third NBA season. His approach to the All-Star Game — treating it like a real competition — stood out. “It’s a game we love. It’s a game I personally cherish. Being competitive is the least I can do,” Wembanyama said.
Team World lost both games
Despite Wembanyama’s production, Team World finished 0-2. The USA vs. World format was new this year. Wembanyama’s individual performance — 33 points on 77 percent shooting — didn’t translate to team wins. Edwards won MVP after leading Team Stars to the championship. But multiple players pointed to Wembanyama as the reason the event felt different. His effort forced others to match it.