Vembanjama calls a stupid save on Team World on Barnes’ game-winner
in 2026 NBA All-Star Game noticed an increase in effort that many believed was no longer possible at the annual show. Doc Anthony Edwards recently expressed a cynical view of the competitiveness of the eventhe arrived on Sunday with a different mindset. Team Stars secured a 37-35 victory over Team World, a result Edwards attributed to the tone he gave Victor Vembanyama.
The Minnesota Timberwolves guard noticed that San Antonio Spurs the center came out with an intensity that made everyone else match his level of play.
This shift in energy was a key factor in rescuing the game from the lack of effort seen in previous years.
The game reached its climax with a three-pointer that was the winner Scottie Barneswhich followed what Vembanyama saw as a breakdown in defensive assignments. In an interview about his reaction to the defeat and the final game, Victor Wembanyama made a direct criticism of his team’s performance.
He said: “Yeah. It was our second time conceding a three when we shouldn’t have – in the game, one quarter actually. I expected us to be smarter right there, so that was disappointing. But I think it’s good to be honest with ourselves. And when it’s a game we love – it’s a game I personally love – so the least I can do is be competitive.” His refusal to accept execution subpar highlighted the serious approach he brought to the weekend. HoopsHipe spotted this.
Anthony Edwards, who won the MVP trophy after scoring thirty-two points throughout the night, remained adamant that Vembanyama was the catalyst for the change in atmosphere.
During his postgame comments, Edwards shared his perspective on the intensity of the night. He stated: “I’m not going to lie, Wemby set the tone. He came out playing hard. It’s hard not to match that, so, s**t, it happened. Excuse my language. But it happened.”
This level of engagement from the league’s youngest stars provided a new blueprint for All-Star Game success.
2026-02-16 14:13:00
