Team Vince captured the 2026 NBA Rising Stars Challenge championship on Friday night, kicking off NBA All-Star Weekend with high energy and emerging star power at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. 

Coached by NBA legend Vince Carter, Team Vince edged Team Melo 25-24, in a thrilling finale. This was highlighted by clutch play from Philadelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe, who was named Rising Stars MVP after delivering decisive baskets in both games of the mini-tournament. 

The format featured four teams – three made up of NBA rookies and second-year players and one G League squad – competing in three games to varying target scores. Team Vince’s path to the championship included a 41-36 semifinal win over Team T-Mac, with Edgecombe pacing the squad with 17 points and crucial late scoring that swung momentum in their favor. 

Edgecombe’s impact was the defining storyline of the night. After dominating the semifinal with a mix of perimeter scoring and all-around play, he again rose to the occasion in the title game. In the closing seconds against Team Melo, he was fouled and calmly knocked down two free throws to push Team Vince past their rivals in a 25-24 nail-biter, earning MVP honors for his efforts. 

Before the final, Team Melo earned its spot by defeating the G League team 40-34 in an early semifinal. San Antonio rookie Dylan Harper – younger sibling of Ron Harper Jr. – made key plays, finishing with a team-high eight points in the final and five rebounds, keeping Team Melo within striking distance throughout. 

Team T-Mac, despite falling to Vince’s squad, featured strong outings from players like Jaylon Tyson, who led the effort with 10 points and five rebounds, showcasing the depth and talent on display across the Rising Stars rosters. 

The Rising Stars Challenge has become a highlight of All-Star Weekend, giving the NBA’s hottest young talents a stage to display their skills, competitiveness and clutch instincts. With its mini-tournament format, the event has shifted from a pure exhibition into an entertaining, competitive showcase that often foreshadows future stars of the league. 

With the Rising Stars event now in the books, All-Star Weekend continues with the Slam Dunk Contest, Three-Point Contest and other marquee festivities building toward Sunday’s All-Star Game – offering a full slate of hoops entertainment for fans in Los Angeles and around the world.