Dallas Mavericks rookie Dereck Lively II is set to represent the organization as one of the rookies in the Rising Stars Challenge at NBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis. After averaging 9.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks, he's solidified himself as one of the top players in his class.
"It feels amazing just being invited, being here at this event," Lively said. "There are a lot of people who wish they could be at this event. You have to be able to be grateful to be in the position you find yourself in."
Lively came off the bench for Team Jalen, finishing with six points and two rebounds in seven minutes, helping achieve a 40-35 victory to advance to the championship after reaching the "target score" of 40. In the title game, he provided six points and one assist in under four minutes in the 26-13 win.
The Rising Stars Challenge is just a small part of the overall rookie experience for Lively. Naturally, there is an opportunity to reflect. What is Lively most proud of so far? He earned a starting role as a rookie and contributed to winning.
“Being able to be a start as a rookie. Being able to be an impactful player; help impact winning,” Lively said. “Being able to earn my teammates’ respect and trust. And just being able to go out there and laugh at one another and have fun. That’s definitely something that I’ve loved. And that’s the main thing.
Coming out of the All-Star break, Lively remains focused on developing his game however he can. He sees continued untapped potential in how he can influence the game for his team on offense.
"I want to get better at being able to just be more effective on the offensive end and being able to be more of an impact,” Lively said.
The Mavs will return to action on Wednesday when taking on the Phoenix Suns at American Airlines before departing for a four-game Eastern Conference road trip.
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