Wizards' Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, Tre Johnson earn All-Star Weekend honors

The trio of young Wizards players will compete in the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars Challenge during NBA All-Star Weekend.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 2:15pm

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The Washington Wizards are sending three players to the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars Challenge during NBA All-Star Weekend: second-year center Alex Sarr, second-year wing Kyshawn George, and rookie guard Tre Johnson. This marks the second time in franchise history the Wizards have had three players selected for the event highlighting the league's top rookies and sophomores.

Why it matters

The Wizards are in the midst of a rebuild, prioritizing player development over immediate wins. The selection of Sarr, George, and Johnson to the Rising Stars Challenge is a testament to the progress of the team's young core and validates the organization's focus on building for the future.

The details

Sarr leads the NBA in blocks per game this season and ranks second among the 2024 draft class in scoring. George is one of only two players aged 22 or younger averaging at least 15 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1 steal per game. Johnson is shooting over 39% from 3-point range and is one of only two rookies with a 40/35/85 shooting split.

  • The 2026 Castrol Rising Stars Challenge will take place on February 13, 2026 at 9:00 p.m. ET.
  • The Wizards have now had a rookie participant in the Rising Stars Challenge for three consecutive seasons, the longest streak in franchise history.

The players

Alex Sarr

A second-year center for the Washington Wizards who leads the NBA in blocks per game this season and ranks second among the 2024 draft class in scoring.

Kyshawn George

A second-year wing for the Washington Wizards who is one of only two players aged 22 or younger averaging at least 15 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1 steal per game.

Tre Johnson

A rookie guard for the Washington Wizards who is shooting over 39% from 3-point range and is one of only two rookies with a 40/35/85 shooting split.

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What they’re saying

“Because of the very hard work and dedication that our players and staff have exhibited, Alex Sarr is having an All-Star-type season in my opinion. He's becoming one of the most dominant big men in the league at the rim on both ends of the floor.”

— Michael Winger, President of Monumental Basketball (Monumental Sports Network)

“Kyshawn at just 22 years old has already become one of the more well-rounded players in the NBA. He's one of just 16 players in the league with his combination of points, rebounds, and assists, and he's the youngest on that list among All-Star company.”

— Michael Winger, President of Monumental Basketball (Monumental Sports Network)

“Tre Johnson, a rookie, is having an unprecedented start to his NBA career. Not far from the revered 50/40/90 mark, he's shown early signs of his development as a playmaker and as a defender, which comes as no surprise to those who have seen his work ethic.”

— Michael Winger, President of Monumental Basketball (Monumental Sports Network)

What’s next

The 2026 Castrol Rising Stars Challenge will take place on February 13, 2026 at 9:00 p.m. ET on Peacock.

The takeaway

The selection of three Wizards players to the Rising Stars Challenge highlights the team's commitment to player development during their rebuild. With a focus on nurturing young talent, the Wizards are positioning themselves for long-term success once they prioritize winning over the next few seasons.