TORONTO — The Lakers' "Backcourt of the Future" shined brightly at the Rising Stars Challenge, albeit against admittedly porous defense.
Jordan Clarkson poured in 25 points, while D'Angelo Russell reached 22 points and seven assists in just 16 minutes to help their USA Team defeat the World Team, 157-154, in a battle of the league's top rookies and sophomores.
After the game, Russell — who shot 9-of-15 — highlighted the personal importance of using the game as a springboard to higher honors in the future.
"The task is sticking and being the cream of the crop of one of those guys," Russell said.