Sixers Jahlil Okafor And Nerlens Noel To Play In Rising Stars Challenge
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Sixers announced on Wednesday that their young tandem of big men, Jahlil Okafor and Nerlens Noel, would be representing the team in the NBA's Rising Stars Challenge during NBA All-Star Weekend.
Noel has been named to the game for the second year in a row, while Okafor will be making his first appearance in the event.
Okafor and Noel will represent the Sixers as teammates in the game as the league will, for the second season, have a United States vs. World format for the game.
This marks the second season in a row that the Sixers will have multiple representatives in the game. That fact is a good sign for a team dedicated to cultivating young talent.
The Sixers were represented by Noel, Robert Covington and Michael Carter-Williams in the game in 2015.
"On behalf of the entire Sixers organization, we are proud that Nerlens and Jahlil were recognized for their talent, hard work and commitment to their craft. This is a recognition both for them and their families, who have sacrificed and supported Nerlens and Jahlil during every step of their basketball journeys," said Sixers President of Basketball Operations & General Manager Sam Hinkie in statement released by the team.
On the season, Okafor is averaging 17.4 points per game which is tops on the Sixers. He is also averaging 7.3 rebounds and 1.1 blocks.
Okafor leads all rookies in 20 point games (18) and leads all rookies in points per game and minutes (30.8).
Noel is continuing to build on his strong rookie campaign. As a sophomore, he is averaging 10.5 points per game and leads the Sixers in rebounding with 8.3 rebounds.
His defensive exploits continue to stand out as Noel is averaging 1.6 blocks to go along with 1.6 steals.
The Rising Stars Challenge is set for February 12 at 9 p.m. CLICK HERE to see the full rosters for the US and World teams.
