The NBA Rising Stars Challenge has announced its rosters for the upcoming event, set for February 14 in San Francisco, with notable coaches including legends Tim Hardaway Sr., Chris Mullin, and Mitch Richmond. Each coach drafted a team of seven players from a pool of 21 rookies and sophomores, with Jeremy Lin helming the G League squad.

Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs is a standout for Team Chris, currently leading the NBA rookie ladder with 12.2 points per game. His teammate Zach Edey, representing the Memphis Grizzlies, is averaging impressive stats with 9.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets is a key player for Team Mitch, showcasing significant improvement in his second year. Team Tim made strategic picks including Zaccharie Risacher from the Atlanta Hawks and Alex Sarr from the Washington Wizards.

Excitement surrounds Mac McClung from the Orlando Magic G League, who is expected to compete in both the Rising Stars Game and the Dunk Contest, aiming for a third consecutive win. With this lineup, the Rising Stars Challenge promises to deliver exhilarating performances from the league's most promising young talents.

The NBA's 2024-25 rookie class continues to impress, with players like Kel'el Ware of the Miami Heat leading the charge. Ware has stepped up significantly in Jimmy Butler's absence, averaging 14.4 points and 8.8 rebounds over his last ten games, making him a must-roster in fantasy leagues. Other notable rookies include Alex Sarr from the Washington Wizards, whose early season success has slowed down, and Isaiah Collier of the Utah Jazz, who has elevated his game since moving into the starting lineup.

Fantasy managers should also keep an eye on Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans and Zach Edey from the Memphis Grizzlies, both of whom are battling injuries but show potential for recovery. For those in need of streaming options, players like Donovan Clingan of the Portland Trail Blazers and Jaylen Wells from the Memphis Grizzlies are emerging as viable picks. Meanwhile, rookies like Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs and Dalton Knecht of the Los Angeles Lakers are still finding their footing and should be monitored closely.

The Houston Rockets face the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at FedExForum in Memphis. The Rockets, currently second in the Western Conference at 32-14, enter the game on a four-game winning streak, including a recent 100-96 victory against the Atlanta Hawks. Jalen Green led the Rockets with 25 points in that game.

Meanwhile, the Grizzlies, boasting a 31-16 record, snapped a six-game losing streak with a loss to the New York Knicks, where Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 21 points and Zach Edey recorded 11 rebounds. The Rockets hold a strong 17-6 road record, while the Grizzlies are 8-2 at home in their last ten games.

The 2025 NBA Rookie of the Year race is intensifying, with San Antonio Spurs' guard Stephon Castle emerging as a strong contender. Currently averaging 11.7 points and 3.6 assists per game, his athleticism and defensive instincts have set him apart, though his shooting efficiency remains a concern.

If Castle secures the award, the Spurs would achieve a remarkable feat, having consecutive winners after Victor Wembanyama's success last year. His teammate Chris Paul believes Castle has the potential to become something special. Other notable candidates include Kel’el Ware and Zach Edey, making the competition wide open.