Clingan, Hansen Shine in NBA All-Star Rising Stars Challenge

During the 2026 NBA All-Star weekend in Inglewood, California, Portland Trail Blazers centers Donovan Clingan and Yang Hansen were standout players at the Rising Stars Challenge. This event showcased NBA rookies and second-year players, along with a team of G-League stars.

Rising Stars Challenge Overview

The Rising Stars Challenge featured three NBA teams coached by Hall of Famers Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter, and Tracy McGrady. Additionally, Austin Rivers led the G-League team. A total of 21 NBA rookies and sophomores participated, chosen by the league’s assistant coaches. Clingan was the 18th pick for Team Melo, while the seven G-League players, including Hansen, were selected by the NBA League office.

Game Format and Highlights

The tournament followed a unique format with two semi-finals played to 40 points, without a game clock. The winning teams moved on to the final, which aimed for 25 points. The opening game featured Hansen’s Team Austin against Clingan’s Team Melo, ensuring that one Portland player would progress while the other would be eliminated.

Player Performances

• Donovan Clingan: Started strong for Team Melo, winning the tip-off and scoring the first seven points. He ended the game with 9 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 block.
• Yang Hansen: Entered the game with his team trailing and responded by scoring 10 points on 80% shooting. He also made 1 free throw and grabbed 2 rebounds.

Both players had crucial moments in the game. Clingan’s three-point shooting was a mixed bag, as he took four attempts and made just one. Hansen impressed the crowd with a strong drive to the rim, which showcased his skills.

Team Success and Final Matchup

Team Melo managed to win the first round 40-34, thanks in part to a decisive 12-2 run. Clingan finished as the co-top scorer for his team, tied with Reed Sheppard. In the all-NBA player semi-final, Team Vince triumphed over Team T-Mac with a score of 41-36, led by VJ Edgecombe’s 17 points.

Final Showdown

In the final, Clingan started strong once again, scoring the first six points for Team Melo. However, he struggled offensively after those initial baskets. His defensive efforts were notable, particularly when he blocked a potential game-winning shot by Edgecombe, although he was fouled in the process.

The game concluded with Team Melo narrowly losing, 25-24, as Edgecombe made two crucial free throws after being fouled. Clingan’s final stats for the final game included just six points and one rebound, highlighting his challenges on the offensive end.

Looking Ahead

The next Blazer to compete is Damian Lillard in the 3-Point Contest, set for 2:00 PM Pacific on Saturday. This will be followed by the KIA Shooting Stars event and the AT&T Slam Dunk contest. On Sunday, Deni Avdija will represent the World team in the main mini-tournament, also starting at 2:00 PM Pacific.