CASTROL RISING STARS POSTGAME

February 14, 2025

Ausar Thompson

Team M

Press Conference

Q. What is it like having All-Star here, and how much are you participating?

AUSAR THOMPSON: Super fun having All-Star here. My first time being at All-Star was in my hometown. So, it's an amazing experience. I've only participated in the Rising Stars. I've got a couple more things I've got to do, but so far so good.

Q. Being that you were in this format, how exciting is it that the winners get an opportunity to play against the top guys?

AUSAR THOMPSON: Super exciting. It makes it more competitive. We kind of wanted to win, until he hit that shot.

Q. What did you think of the physicality? Seemed like they were letting a lot of things go down the stretch. Was it fun or was it frustrating?

AUSAR THOMPSON: It's fun. Was it getting physical? I couldn't tell. I got hit in the nose. That's about it. I didn't expect that.

Q. Did you feel like guys really wanted it in the last part of that game there?

AUSAR THOMPSON: Yeah, definitely. That team definitely wanted it more than us.

Q. Do you think if the All-Stars embrace this format they could really put on a good show on Sunday?

AUSAR THOMPSON: Yeah, definitely.

Q. What did your brother Amen say to you before the game and what did he say to you after the game?

AUSAR THOMPSON: Before the game, he said, let's win. After the game didn't say anything. I just kind of just came here.

Q. What do you think is the coolest nickname in the NBA?

AUSAR THOMPSON: Beef Stew.

Q. If you could only listen to one artist for the rest of your life, who would it be?

AUSAR THOMPSON: Good question. Kanye West.