OG Anunoby to play in the Rising Stars Challenge on Team World

OG Anunoby has had something of an odd season for the Raptors. He’s been in and out of the lineup for personal reasons, injured, and varying in his effectiveness. But he’s also managed to make it to the NBA’s All-Star Weekend as a member of Team World in the Rising Stars Challenge.

To explain: The Rising Stars Challenge is a contest between NBA rookies and sophomores that happens to now be organized in an Team USA vs. Team World format. As is tradition, it will take place on the Friday of the weekend, in this case happening on Feb. 15th at 9pm (approximately after the All-Star Celebrity Game).

Anunoby, a native of London, England, will be joined by such luminaries as Luka Doncic, Canadian Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Ben Simmons. Here’s the official reveal of the full team, courtesy of NBA TV:

For his efforts this season, Anunoby is putting up 7.3 points and 3.0 rebounds in 20.4 minutes per game. He’s appeared in 41 games this season for the Raptors, and shown flashes of the potential still within him. (As when OG matched his career-high with 21 points and eight rebounds against the hapless Cavs.)

As for the Team World’s opponents, Team USA will take the court with the following squad:

Folks, to be honest, I like Team World’s chances. Cheers to OG on earning a spot in the showcase. May he represent the Raptors well.