History

1971 NBA All-Star recap

Lenny Wilkens scores 21 points off the bench on 8-for-11 shooting to lead the West past the West 108-107.

From NBA.com Staff

September 13, 2021 12:53 PM

WEST 108, EAST 107, at San Diego Sports Arena

ATTENDANCE: 14,378

MVP: Lenny Wilkens, Seattle SuperSonics

Always one of the most steady guards in NBA history, Lenny Wilkens’ influence was felt in a back-and-forth All-Star Game in 1971 at the San Diego Sports Arena. The Sonics guard came off the bench to score a game-high 21 points and help the West to a 108-107 win with timely shooting and aggressive play.

After starting guards Jerry West (five points, nine assists) and Dave Bing (four points) struggled, Wilkens and reserve Bob Love of the Bulls stepped in to help key the victory. For the East, Willis Reed was solid in his final All-Star Game apperance, netting 14 points and 13 rebounds.

Three expansion teams in 1970-71 — the Buffalo Braves, Cleveland Cavaliers and Portland Trail Blazers — fielded their first-ever All-Stars in franchise history in this game.

Forward-center Bob Kauffman represented the Braves (now known as the L.A. Clippers), forward John Johnson was the Cavs’ representative and guard Geoff Petrie was the Blazers’ representative.