INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The USA Stripes secured a narrow victory over Team World on Sunday, advancing to the final round of the NBA All-Star Game’s new USA vs. World format. Despite a strong performance from Victor Wembanyama, Team World was eliminated after a 48-45 defeat.

Kawhi Leonard led the USA Stripes with 31 points in just 12 minutes of play. Wembanyama finished with 19 points for Team World.

The USA Stripes will now face the USA Stars in the championship game.

Close Contest Down to the Wire

The game remained incredibly tight throughout, with the USA Stripes ultimately pulling ahead in the final seconds. With 3 seconds remaining, the USA Stripes led by three points – the margin Team World needed to win to advance.

Earlier in the fourth quarter, the USA Stripes took the lead thanks to a series of baskets from Kawhi Leonard. Team World fought back, but ultimately fell short.

Wembanyama’s Strong Showing Not Enough

Wembanyama showcased his talent, scoring 11 points in five minutes during one stretch of the game. He finished with a notable performance, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the USA Stripes.

“I’m never stepping onto the court to lose, you know, or not caring,”

Victor Wembanyama

The new format, pitting USA teams against a team comprised of international players, was implemented in hopes of increasing competitiveness in the traditionally exhibition-style All-Star Game.

Earlier Results

Earlier in the day, the USA Stripes defeated the USA Stars 42-40 in a thrilling game that went to overtime, sealed by a last-second three-pointer from De’Aaron Fox.

The USA Stars had previously defeated Team World 32-32, with Wembanyama scoring 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

Durant’s Skepticism

Kevin Durant expressed cynicism regarding the increased competitiveness, questioning whether international players would truly compete.

“You should ask the Europeans and the World team if they’re going to compete. If you appear at Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic now, let’s travel back and look at what they do in the All-Star Game. Is that competition? So we haven’t questioned what they’ve been doing. But we’re going to question the old heads, and the Americans.”

Kevin Durant

FAQ

• What is the new All-Star Game format? The NBA has implemented a USA vs. World format, with two USA teams (Stripes and Stars) competing against a team of international players (World).
• Who won the 3-point contest? Damian Lillard won the 3-point contest for the third time.
• Who won the dunk contest? Keshad Johnson won the dunk contest.