By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The famous nod to Vassilis Spanoulis by sporting jersey number 77 was brilliantly extended into the 2024 NBA All-Star Game by Luka Doncic.
In his fifth All-Star Game, the Slovenian star produced seven points, seven rebounds, and seven assists in a losing effort in Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Sunday. “That was my plan,” he recapped his symbolic tally, struggling to hold back laughter.
“It was fun. It is always fun for me, just being here,” he mentioned.
Serbian teammate on Team West, Nikola Jokic finished with 13 points, nine assists, four rebounds, and two steals. But adding to the trend and confirming his nickname, he was far from generous in praise for Doncic. “Luka’s terrible. Luka’s really bad for this game,” he said, “He’s worse than me. 100 percent.”
Team East prevailing, 211-186, in the 73rd edition of the All-Star Game set a new record for the most points scored by one team. The combined totals of 397 points and 67 three-pointers were also new records.
Remaining European participation through Giannis Antetokounmpo produced 23 points, seven rebounds, and one assist. His teammate at the Milwaukee Bucks, Damian Lillard, was named MVP after also winning the Starry 3-Point Contest on Saturday.
“All we had to do as a team was give him the ball, and he did what he does best, make a lot of threes,” the Greek Freak referred to Lillard dominating the All-Star Weekend and packing 39 points behind 11/23 three-pointers in the All-Star Game.
From Jordan to Lillard
Lillard, 33, became the second player after Michael Jordan to emerge as the most valuable player of the All-Star Game coming out of success in All-Star Saturday night. Jordan claimed the dunk title and went on to All-Star Game MVP in 1988.
“When I knew I was going to do the 3-point, I’m going to try to win. I’m not going to be casual and cool about it. And I’m an All-Star starter. Why not go and try to get an MVP? It’s just something I put my mind on, and that’s going to be what my intentions are this weekend, and I was able to do it,” explained Lillard.
However, the Indiana Pacers fans in Gainbridge Fieldhouse were not happy with the MVP announcement, preferring the award to stay home with fellow All-Star Game standout Tyrese Haliburton.
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