Some of the stars of the future took the floor for the inaugural NBA G-League Next Gem Game during the 2022 All-Star Weekend in Cleveland, Ohio.
The G-League Ignite traveled to the East to visit the Cleveland Charge at the Wolstein Center.
The game was played just six hours before the start of the All-Star Game and was designed to pay tribute to the NBA’s 75th anniversary season.
Game news
Behind Malik Newman's 30 points, the Charge protected home soil and came out with the victory 92-96.
Despite the Ignite jumping out to a 16-point lead prior to half-time, the Charge kept their composure and secured an impressive comeback.
That winning feeling 🤩🤩#ChargeUp #NextGemGame pic.twitter.com/q4vBAR1Lz1
— Cleveland Charge (@ChargeCLE) February 20, 2022
Cleveland had a total of five players in double digits, including an spectacular double double by Tacko Fall (12 PTS, 10 REB, 3BLK). The 7'6 center also now leads the G-League in blocks, averaging 2.8 per game.
Justin James played an instrumental role in the Charge's win. He recorded 17 points and six rebounds in 33 minutes of play.
The Ignite also had five players score in double figures. Potential first round pick Jaden Hardy led all of the Ignite in scoring with 20 points.
Projected first round pick Jaden Hardy working on his free throws.
— Eduardo Villalpando (@eduardovh_mx) February 20, 2022
The 19 year-old is averaging 17.6 games for the G-League Ignite this season. #NBAGLeague pic.twitter.com/mCOB53SW1J
Dyson Daniels added 18 points and 13 rebounds.
Earlier during All-Star weekend, Hardy and Daniels, along with MarJon Beauchamp and Scoot Henderson, played in the Clorox Rising Stars.
Following his appearance in the Taco Bell Skills Challenge, MarJon Beauchamp is ready to showcase his talents in the G-League’s Next Gem Game during NBA All-Star Weekend! #NBAGLeague #NBAAllStar #NextGemGame pic.twitter.com/HyEkRNG9Yl
— Eduardo Villalpando (@eduardovh_mx) February 20, 2022