The New Orleans Pelicans forward Herb Jones will play Friday at the Clorox Rising Stars event. Although Jones is renowned in the NBA for his defensive skills, the event mainly showcases offensive playmaking, complete with 3-pointers and showy dunks. “I never would have guessed it, but I’m super thankful that I was selected and I’ll be able to be a part of All-Star Weekend,” said Jones of the event. The Rising Stars have been divided into four teams for a three-game tournament in Cleveland on Friday. Jones will be coached by one of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team members, James Worthy. Jones joined the Pelicans as a second-round choice in the 2022 draft, and has now worked his way to the starting lineup. With an average 9.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.4 steals in 56 games, including 47 starts. “Just staying on top of my recovery and my sleep and my diet,” said Jones about dealing with the rigor of playing at least 82 games through the season. The event will air on TNT at 8 p.m. CST on Friday. The first team to reach 50 points will win Games 1 and 2, with the championship game to be the first to 25.
