NBA announces 2026 Rising Stars rosters: The Sophomores

The NBA’s sophomore class is back for an encore, and this year’s group is proving the “sophomore slump” is nothing but a myth. Headlined by the reigning Rookie of the Year and a defensive anchor in the nation’s capital, this roster features players who have leaped from promising rookies to legitimate starters. Here is the full list of second-year stars ready to shine in Los Angeles.

Stephon Castle (San Antonio Spurs)

Season Stats: 16.6 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 7.0 APG​
Castle has been nothing short of spectacular in his second season. With Victor Wembanyama drawing attention, Castle has blossomed into a premier playmaker, ranking 10th in the league in assists. He recently dropped a season-high 26 points against the Suns and has shown a knack for filling the stat sheet, making him arguably the best player on this roster.

Alex Sarr (Washington Wizards)

Season Stats: 17.2 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 2.8 APG​
Sarr has taken a massive leap offensively while remaining a defensive terror. He is averaging over 17 points per game, a huge jump from his rookie year, and recently poured in a career-high 34 points against the Nuggets. His combination of size, shot-blocking, and improved scoring touch makes him a nightmare matchup in this setting.

Reed Sheppard (Houston Rockets)

Role: Sharpshooting Playmaker
After a quiet rookie year, Sheppard has found his groove in Houston. With Jalen Green gone, he has stepped into a larger role as a floor spacer and secondary ball-handler. His elite three-point shooting (over 50% in college) is starting to translate into a deadly weapon alongside Amen Thompson.

Matas Buzelis (Chicago Bulls)

Role: Versatile Forward
Buzelis continues to be a bright spot for the Bulls, using his length and athleticism to impact the game on both ends. His ability to run the floor and finish above the rim makes him a perfect fit for the fast-paced nature of the Rising Stars game. He has steadily improved his scoring efficiency in year two.​

Donovan Clingan (Portland Trail Blazers)

Role: Defensive Anchor
“Cling Kong” remains a wall in Portland’s paint. While his offensive game is still developing, his rim protection is elite. In a game full of guards driving to the basket, Clingan will be the one making them think twice.​

Kyshawn George (Washington Wizards)

Role: 3-and-D Wing
George joins his teammate Sarr as a key piece of Washington’s young core. His length allows him to defend multiple positions, and his three-point shot has become a reliable weapon. He is the type of glue guy every team needs.​

Ajay Mitchell (Oklahoma City Thunder)

Role: Steady Point Guard
Mitchell has quietly become a solid rotation piece for the Thunder. He plays with a calmness that fits perfectly in OKC’s system, rarely turning the ball over and making smart reads. He won’t flash the wildest highlights, but he will make the right play every time.​

Cam Spencer (Memphis Grizzlies)

Role: Sniper
Spencer brings elite shooting and a fiery competitive edge to the sophomore squad. He plays with a chip on his shoulder and isn’t afraid to let opponents know when he hits a big shot. His spacing will be crucial for his team.​

Jaylon Tyson (Cleveland Cavaliers)

Role: Scoring Wing
Tyson has shown flashes of being a dynamic scorer for Cleveland. He has the size to get to his spots and the touch to finish over defenders. This showcase is an excellent opportunity for him to display his full offensive bag.​

Kel’el Ware (Miami Heat)

Role: Athletic Big
Ware fits the Miami Heat culture perfectly; he plays hard, runs the floor, and protects the rim. His athleticism for a 7-footer is rare, and he should be on the receiving end of plenty of lobs in Los Angeles.​

Jaylen Wells (Memphis Grizzlies)

Role: Two-Way Guard
Wells rounds out the Grizzlies’ trio in the event. He has earned his minutes by playing tough defense and hitting open shots. His development is a big reason why Memphis remains one of the best talent developers in the league.​

The verdict

This sophomore class has star power at the top with Castle and Sarr, but it’s the depth that makes them dangerous. With elite shooting, rim protection, and playmaking, this group has all the tools to dominate the tournament.

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