The first quarter ended with the score at 37-36. The two teams were evenly matched.
No fan could possibly have imagined this score or this scene before the game.
After yesterday's Slam Dunk Contest turned into an epic showdown, today's main event was also showing signs of heading in that direction!
In the second quarter, both sides rotated their lineups.
The reserves finally got a decent amount of playing time.
On James's team, Westbrook and Curry were on the perimeter, Harden and Anthony at forward, and Whiteside at center.
Lue once again displayed his genius coaching, putting out a One Big Four Small Lineup with three guards.
On Tang Tian's team, Walker and Lillard were on the perimeter, DeRozan and Aldridge at forward, and Horford at center.
Tang Tian's team had the first possession.
Walker drove and kicked it out to Lillard. Lillard caught the ball and, without any hesitation, pulled up from outside against Curry.
That was a questionable shot selection.
Swish!
But Lillard buried it!
There were too many super teams in the West, and Lillard's Trail Blazers had become the sacrifice.
But his personal performance had steadily improved, and his personal stats had exploded this season.
He had brought that confidence to the All-Star Game!
In a deadlock, a three-pointer like that was a huge morale boost.
The Pelicans' bench erupted in excitement, and Thompson waved his towel wildly.
On the way back, Curry wanted to answer, but his long-range shot from a step outside the three-point line struck the front rim and bounced out.
In fact, Curry had made only one shot in the entire first quarter, that Deep three-pointer not long after the opening tip.
He had been subbed out early afterward, and now that he was back, his touch was clearly off.
Tang Tian's