The 2024 NBA All-Star weekend in Indianapolis was one for the books, with Damian Lillard of the Milwaukee Bucks making a big impact. In his first appearance at the All-Star Game, Lillard secured the MVP title for the Eastern Conference. With an impressive display, he finished with 39 points, 11 3-pointers, six assists, three rebounds, and one steal, contributing to the record-breaking 211-186 victory over the West.
Lillard’s exceptional performance included 14 of 26 from the field and 11 of 23 on 3-pointers, breaking All-Star Game records for total points and 3-pointers with 42. Notably, Lillard, along with Boston guard Jaylen Brown and Indiana guard Tyrese Haliburton, all scored over 30 points. On the other side, Karl Anthony-Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves also made an impact, scoring 50 points for the West.
The former Weber State star executed two midcourt shots in the second half, adding to his impressive showcase at the All-Star Game. Additionally, he successfully defended his NBA 3-point contest title by finishing with 26 points in the final round, making him the eighth player to win at least two 3-point crowns.
In other events of the All-Star weekend, Mac McClung won his second consecutive NBA Slam Dunk Contest, making him the sixth player with two or more Slam Dunk titles. The high-flying 6-foot-2 guard showed off his skills by leaping over Shaquille O’Neal, earning him perfect scores on his final attempt.
McClung, who plays for the G-League affiliate of the Orlando Magic, expressed gratitude towards O’Neal for participating in the iconic moment. With a total of 98.8 points on his last two dunks, he secured the victory, becoming the first player to win in back-to-back seasons since Zach LaVine in 2015 and 2016.
The All-Star weekend honored the late Terrence Clark, a Massachusetts prep star who passed away in a car crash in April 2021. Brown paid tribute to Clark during the Slam Dunk Contest, adding a meaningful touch to the event.
The 2024 NBA All-Star weekend was filled with memorable highlights and remarkable performances, showcasing the talent and skill of the league’s top players. As we look forward to the next All-Star weekend, basketball fans can anticipate more thrilling displays and unforgettable moments on the court.
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