INDIANAPOLIS, USA – The 2024 NBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis saw the Eastern Conference triumph over the Western Conference, with a record-breaking, high-scoring victory. The game, played at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse, ended with the East surpassing the 200-point mark to win 211-186. It was the first time in the game’s 73-year history that a team breached the 200-point threshold.
Karl-Anthony Towns was the leading scorer of the game with 50 points despite being on the losing side, while Damian Lillard led the East with 39 points and was awarded the Kobe Bryant MVP Award for his performance. Lillard’s impressive showing also included two halfcourt shots. It was his first time winning the award in his eight All-Star appearances. Jaylen Brown and Tyrese Haliburton also contributed 36 and 32 points, respectively.
The All-Star Game’s format returned to the traditional East-West format this year, ending six years of playground-style games where two captains picked players in a draft. The weekend’s festivities also included Mac McClung winning the dunk contest for the second straight year, and Lillard repeating as the 3-point contest winner. In the first ever NBA vs. WNBA 3-point challenge, Steph Curry emerged victorious against Sabrina Ionescu.
The contest saw a flurry of record-breaking achievements, with the total points of 397 setting a new record, as well as 42 3-pointers made by the East. The game also saw the West captain LeBron James playing his record 20th All-Star game, where he was limited due to an ankle injury. He was able to score just 8 points in 14 minutes of play. Despite the loss, the East dominated throughout the game and emerged as the clear victors. The game was a visual spectacle that entertained fans and displayed the incredible talent of these skilled athletes.
The weekend’s extravaganza showcased an array of impressive talent and performances, adding to the rich history of the NBA and marking an exciting start to the season. The 2024 NBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis will certainly be remembered for the remarkable individual and team accomplishments on display, setting the stage for a thrilling season ahead.