Before Cleveland Cavs All-Star Darius Garland joins Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley in Sunday’s All-Star Game, the two represented their team in the Kia Skills Challenge during All-Star Saturday Night. After San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama and Chris Paul were disqualified when Wembanyama intentionally missed three corner threes and free throws to shave time off the clock, Mitchell and Mobley won this year’s obstacle-course competition.
After the victory, TNT’s Allie LaForce asked Mitchell if what Wembanyama and Paul did was labeled cheating.
“They play to win. They play by the rules. But it was definitely cheating though,” Mitchell said.
Wembanyama and Paul didn’t seem amused by Mitchell’s comments, which were well-received by the fans at the Chase Center. The Spurs duo unveiled their strategy after completing chest passes and bounce passes. Both players are required to take a three-point shot and a free throw. However, after three misses you can continue the course. Wembanyama and Paul decided they’d take their misses without even trying.
Wemby tossed three balls off the rack without even looking at the hoop. He did the same for the free throw and the corner 3. The Spurs duo were disqualified from the event. Then, Cavs’ Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley won the Skills Challenge.
Garland represented the Cavs in the Starry 3-Point Contest, leading up to the Slam Dunk Contest. Miami Heat All-Star Tyler Herro defeated the returning champion, Milwaukee Bucks All-Star Damian Lillard.
Cavs All-Star Darius Garland’s honest take on All-Star Weekend
Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Cleveland Cavs All-Star Darius Garland was ecstatic for this year’s All-Star weekend. After missing most of the 2023-24 campaign with a grueling jaw injury, Garland earned his second All-Star selection. He was also tabbed to participate in Saturday’s 3-Point Contest before joining his All-Star teammates Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley on Sunday.
During All-Stars’ open practice, Garland expressed his excitement, per NBATV.
“Just super excited being out here with so much talent, with some of the greatest fans,” Garland said. “Super excited, super fun being here. It’s a blessing being here. So I’m excited. I’m happy.”
Garland’s jaw was wired shut last year.
“It’s a big difference,” Garland said. “It’s crazy what a year can do for you. Just being here now, and thinking about what I was doing last year is definitely a blessing. It’s cool to see what God can do in just one year. I’m super happy to be here. I’m blessed.”
The 2025 NBA All-Star Game is on Sunday at 8 PM EST.
