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Basketball

Damian Lillard Named MVP as East Wins Record-Setting NBA All-Star Game

Each NBA All-Star Game is a true spectacle in its own right, and this year’s match was truly one for the books. Damian Lillard was named the game’s MVP after leading the Eastern Conference to a history-making 211–186 win against the Western Conference. This year’s All-Star Game returned to the classic East vs. West format, and the East prevailed this time around. Giannis Antetokounmpo served as the East captain, and he had great support from his Milwaukee Bucks teammate Lillard, plus Tyrese Haliburton, Jayson Tatum, and Trae Young, who served as Joel Embiid's replacement. The Eastern Conference proved their domination during each quarter and eventually scored the 211–186 victory, breaking several records along the way. They set a new point record for a single team in the NBA All-Star Game, in addition to setting a record for the most points scored by both teams. Karl-Anthony Towns netted 50 points for the West, but that wasn’t enough to lead his team to victory. Damian Lillard was named the All-Star Game MVP after coming into the night determined to win and scoring 39 points for the East. “It’s an honor. I’ve been here quite a few times so to be able to have this type of accomplishment is special,” said Lillard after winning the MVP prize.