McCollum selected for the 2026 All-Star Rising Stars Challenge, replacing injured Jones Garcia.
2026-02-08 00:39
The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend is about to kick off in Inglewood, California, and the NBA has released a major personnel change announcement: Chicago Bulls' Mark McLoughlin will replace San Antonio Spurs guard David Jones-Garcia, who is out injured, to compete in the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars Challenge.
This is a dramatic return for 27-year-old McCollum. Just this week, he signed a two-way contract with the Bulls. Despite struggling to establish himself in the NBA, McCollum's career has only spanned five teams, with 10 appearances.
However, McLonger is undoubtedly a superstar in the G League. This season, McLonger played 25 games for the Windy City Bulls, averaging 25.7 points and 7.5 assists per game, showcasing his dominant offensive talent.
McCollum will join a team coached by NBA legend Austin Reeves, comprised entirely of G League stars. They will face a tough challenge against three other teams comprised of NBA rookie and sophomore stars, coached by legends Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter, and Tracy McGrady respectively.
This roster change stems from the injury to Spurs star David Jones-Garcia. It is understood that Garcia is suffering from a serious right ankle injury, which will not only prevent him from participating in this year's All-Star Weekend, but will also cause him to miss the remainder of the season.
The 2026 All-Star Rising Stars Challenge will officially kick off at 9 p.m. Eastern Time on February 13, where four teams will compete in a semi-final and final series to determine the ultimate champion.
Image source: Internet
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