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Russell, Ingram Represent Lakers At Rising Stars Challenge

NEW ORLEANS — D’Angelo Russell and Brandon Ingram had the opportunity to clash with the best of their fellow rookies and sophomores at Friday’s Rising Stars Challenge.

Donning red, white and blue instead of their usual purple and gold, the duo helped the USA Team make a late run before the World Team surged back for a 150-141 win in a defensive-averse matchup at Smoothie King Center.

It was the second trip to All-Star Weekend for Russell, who finished with 10 points, three rebounds, four assists and two steals in his return to the event.

“I felt like a vet out there,” Russell said. “Directing guys, telling them what not to do. It was cool.”

Meanwhile Ingram — who had a quieter night with four points and three rebounds — had his mind set on improving for next season after making his Rising Stars debut.

“I think this summer is going to be a big summer for me to make a big jump for next year,” Ingram said. “I think (I will) just continue to show my work ethic and show what I can do on the basketball floor.”

Both Lakers started strong, as Russell — who started at point guard — splashed a 3-pointer on the USA Team’s opening shot, while Ingram hit his first attempt as well just minutes later.

But the World Team grabbed an 11-point halftime lead before Russell and Ingram helped their squad fight back.

With both on the floor, the USA Team surged to a two-point deficit with nine minutes left on another triple by Russell.

However, they both checked out soon after, capping a night highlighted by Russell’s slick dribbling and step-back jumper over Domantas Sabonis that drew “oohs” from the crowd, as well as a fast-break slam from Ingram.

But then MVP Jamal Murray took over, leading the World Team to victory with 36 points, 11 assists and nine 3-pointers.

“We tried to pick up the defense a little bit,” Russell said. “Guys got hot. Jamal Murray was special out there tonight. We didn’t have an answer.”

Notes
Hometown favorite Buddy Hield (28 points), Kristaps Porzingis (24 points, 10 rebounds) and Nikola Jokic (12 points, 11 rebounds) also had big nights for the World Team. … The USA team was led by Frank Kaminsky (33 points, nine 3-pointers) and Karl-Anthony Towns (24 points, 11 rebounds).