Kentucky commit Wagner, Bronny shine in McDonald's All-American Game
Kentucky commit DJ Wagner scored all 19 of his points in the second half to lead Team East to a thrilling 109-106 victory over Team West in the 2023 McDonald's All-American Game.
The No. 1 overall prospect in this year's recruiting class tallied three assists, two boards, two steals, two blocks, and a late dunk to ignite Team East's comeback from a 16-point deficit.
The East beats the West 109-106 coming back from down double digits 😳 what do we think of this ending sequence? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/tSHaaGiFmZ
— SportsCenter NEXT (@SCNext) March 29, 2023
Team East had a 48-33 advantage on the glass and outscored Team West 25-7 in second-chance points.
Wagner was named co-MVP with USC commit Isaiah Collier, who had a game-high 25 points on 9-of-14 shooting for Team West in a losing cause.
"It was a great experience, I'm just honored just to come out here and step on the court with these guys in this stage," Wagner said postgame on ESPN, according to Adam Zagoria of NJ Advance Media. "It's a great feeling."
Bronny James also put on a show, recording 15 points, including a 5-of-8 mark from deep. The 18-year-old showed an ability to catch and shoot, pull up off the dribble, and relocate to open areas on the floor.
15 points (5/8 3P) for projected top-10 pick Bronny James showing why he's so highly regarded by some with an outstanding McDonald's All-American game showing. Also played strong defense and showed off his advanced feel for the game. pic.twitter.com/clsCGAyngd
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) March 29, 2023
Bronny was competing in the all-star exhibition contest 20 years after his father, LeBron, took part in the event. He's the only participant who hasn't committed to a school for next season.
Andrej Stojakovic, the son of former NBA sharpshooter Peja, was a member of Team West. The four-star recruit will suit up for Stanford next season.
Kentucky led the way with four McDonald's All-American selections, followed by Duke with three.