Rising Stars Challenge at All-Star Weekend: Mavs Rookie Jaden Hardy Misses Cut
The NBA announced this year's participants in the Rising Stars Challenge ahead of All-Star Weekend in Salt Lake City. Dallas Mavericks rookie Jaden Hardy was excluded from the list.
The members of Hardy's rookie class that received an invite include Paolo Banchero, Jalen Duren, AJ Griffin, Jaden Ivey, Walker Kessler, Bennedict Mathurin, Keegan Murray, Andrew Nembhard, Jabari Smith Jr., Jeremy Sochan, and Jalen Williams.
Hardy has played 229 minutes and has not been on the court nearly as often as his rookie peers. His season began by spending most of his time with the Mavs' G League affiliate, the Texas Legends. When receiving NBA opportunities, he has shown some intriguing flashes of potential.
Most of Hardy's opportunities have come when backcourt injuries have occurred. He last played at least 10 minutes in a game on Jan. 15, when he scored a career-high 25 points in a road loss against the Portland Trail Blazers. He has recorded 15 points or more in three games.
The Rising Stars Challenge will look quite different this year compared to the traditional format. It will be a mini-tournament involving four teams consisting of seven players. There are 11 rookies and 10 sophomores will be drafted and coached by former NBA stars Pau Gasol, Joakim Noah, and Deron Williams. Jason Terry will coach a team consisting of seven G League participants.
The only confirmed participant in All-Star Weekend festivities among Mavs players is Luka Doncic, who was recently named an All-Star starter. The reserves for the All-Star have yet to be confirmed, so there is still a lot yet to be determined in that regard.
Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Dallas Mavericks? Click Here.
Follow DallasBasketball.com on Twitter and Facebook.
Follow Grant Afseth on Twitter.
