Edgecombe Claims MVP in Intense Rising Stars Challenge

The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend kicked off with the Castrol Rising Stars Challenge, an intense battle between the league’s top rookies and sophomores at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.

In a thrilling final, Team Vince, coached by NBA legend Vince Carter, emerged victorious over Team Melo, captained by Carmelo Anthony. The game was tied at 23-23 before Philadelphia 76ers’ VJ Edgecombe sealed the win with two clutch free throws, earning him the MVP title with a game-high 6 points in the final.

“I’m truly honored to be named MVP,” said Edgecombe. “It’s been an incredible journey so far, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

Harper Brothers Take Center Stage

Dylan and Ron Harper Jr. stole the show in the semi-finals, scoring crucial points for their respective teams. Dylan draped a step-back three over Ron to win the first semi-final for Team Melo, while Ron Jr. put up a fighting effort with 6 points and 5 rebounds.

“That was a special moment,” commented Dylan. “Competing against my brother, knowing he had to guard me, added to the intensity.”

Semi-Final Action

• Team Melo (Carmelo Anthony) defeated Team Austin (Austin Rivers) 40-35. Dylan Harper’s winner capped off a stellar performance from Team Melo’s duo, Clingan and Sheppard, who scored 9 points each.
• Team Vince (Vince Carter) outplayed Team TMac (Tracy McGrady) 40-36. Edgecombe’s 17 points and 5 rebounds propelled Team Vince to the final, while Jaylon Tyson’s 10 points and 5 rebounds were not enough for TMac’s squad.

Final Standings

Team Vince (Coach: Vince Carter) – Winners

• Edgecombe – 17 points, 5 rebounds (MVP)
• Castle – 6 points, 5 assists
• …

Team Melo (Coach: Melo) – Runners-up

• Dylan Harper – 8 points, 5 rebounds
• Clingan – 6 points
• …