The excitement for the 2025 NBA Rising Stars Challenge is palpable as it takes center stage this Friday, February 14 at the Chase Center in San Francisco. This year's event has raised the stakes significantly, with the winning team earning not only bragging rights but also the opportunity to compete in the prestigious NBA All-Star Game set for Sunday, February 16.
Beginning at 9 p.m. EST, the Rising Stars Game will be broadcast live on TNT and truTV, providing fans with multiple viewing options to keep them engaged. For those seeking to catch the action for free, DirecTV Stream offers promotional trials, and SlingTV is also available, providing various subscription packages to suit different viewer preferences.
This year’s Rising Stars Challenge is innovative, featuring four teams—three comprised of NBA rookies and sophomores, and one formed from exceptional G League talents. Team G League is coached by former NBA star Jeremy Lin, who will guide his squad against teams coached by legends Tim Hardaway, Mitch Richmond, and Chris Mullin, all of whom were prominent figures during their playing days with the Golden State Warriors, affectionately known as Run-TMC.
The exposure players receive here is invaluable, as the Rising Stars Game allows younger athletes to showcase their potential on a grand stage. Team T, under Tim Hardaway Sr., fields rookies including Brandin Podziemski and Jaime Jaquez Jr., with other rising talents like Gradey Dick and Anthony Black rounding out the squad. Meanwhile, Team M coached by Mitch Richmond includes the likes of Amen Thompson and Ausar Thompson, both of whom are eager to leave their mark.
Team C, led by Chris Mullin, showcases competitive talent including Utah Jazz playmaker Keyonte George and Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey, who aim to capitalize on their opportunity to shine. Last but not least, Team G League, steered by Lin, boasts promising stars like Leonard Miller and Mac McClung, both hungry to prove their skills against top-tier competition.
The format of the event adheres to thrilling mini-tournament rules: two semifinal games leading to the championship match. For each semifinal, the team to first reach or surpass 40 points is declared the winner. The championship game's threshold is set lower at 25 points, ensuring quick, action-packed excitement. Game 1 will see Team C clash with Team T, followed by Game 2, where Team G League takes on Team M.
Streaming options abound for those wishing to catch the event, with DirecTV Stream, SlingTV, and HBO Max all offering ways to tune in. DirecTV Stream promises three free months of premium channels including Max for new subscribers, making it more accessible than ever for fans.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Kevin Hart will step onto the court as the master of ceremonies for the NBA All-Star Game, engaging the crowd with his signature humor and energy. The comedic actor has previously hosted segments and broadcasts for the NBA, establishing him as a familiar face during All-Star Weekend.
The All-Star Game itself will feature Bay Area highlights, with Grammy-winning artists such as Raphael Saadiq and H.E.R. celebrating the region's rich musical culture. Coming together with live performances during the games, this year’s All-Star weekend isn’t just about basketball; it’s also about embracing the vibrant cultural contributions of the Bay Area.
The anticipation is building for the Rising Stars Challenge, as teams composed of the league’s burgeoning talents prepare to showcase their skills. With the spotlight squarely on them, players understand this is their moment to secure their places as the future stars of the NBA. The outcomes could very well dictate the narratives around their nascent careers, especially as they aim to integrate themselves not just within their teams, but also the wider basketball community.