The New York Knicks were well represented at this year's All-Star Game, with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns competing for Team Stripes and Team World, respectively.
In the end, none of them won the trophy, as Team Stars won the mini tournament. It was the young guns, including Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs, who shone brightest at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.
Edwards was named All-Star Game MVP, while Wembanyama almost single-handedly led the team to the World Cup. Edwards acknowledged Vembanyama for setting the tone In the mid-season showdown, and Brunson agreed.
"I think Wembey is a leader. The way he carries himself is great for this game. I think he's done a great job, and you can see the impact he's had on and off the court during this game. That's why he's doing what he does," Brunson said.
Jalen Brunson agrees with Anthony Edwards and says Victor Wembanyama has set the tone for the intensity of the All-Star Game.
"I mean, yes. I think Wembey is a leader. The way he carries himself is fantastic for this game. I think he's done a great job, and you can see the impact he's had… https://t.co/yOCqsqKPoM pic.twitter.com/DYzrcmrFm1
- ClutchPoints (@clutchpoints) 16 February 2026
The 22-year-old Vembanayama, who played in his second consecutive All-Star Game, scored 33 points on 10-of-13 shooting, eight rebounds and two blocks in two games, although they lost both.
For his part, the 29-year-old Brunson had 13 points, three rebounds, four assists and two steals in three games.
Even before the highly anticipated competition, Vembanyama made it clear that he did not see it as a comfortable exhibition, and stressed the need to work hard to compete.
Team World still had a chance to advance to the finals, but Vembanyama missed a three-pointer, sending the game into overtime against Team Stripes.
Meanwhile, Brunson and the Knicks return to action on Thursday against the Detroit Pistons.
