Basketball

Let's start with this: He brought a book to the All-Star Game. As if the NBA needed more proof that San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama is different, the latest example came Sunday in a locker-room video posted by the league.

Charlotte Hornets (13-39, 14th in the Eastern Conference) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (32-20, fifth in the Western Conference) Los Angeles; Wednesday, 10 p.m. EST BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Lakers -13.5; over/under is 223.

DALLAS (AP) — The Dallas Mavericks said Sunday they have suspended an employee they didn't identify after assistant coach Darrell Armstrong was arrested on a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

The trade deadline is gone. The All-Star break is about to end. Luka Doncic is with the Los Angeles Lakers. Jimmy Butler is with the Golden State Warriors. Anthony Davis is with the Dallas Mavericks, though it's unknown when he'll play again.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Victor Wembanyama has already gone up against the U.S. in international events, most notably last year's Paris Olympics when he led France's march to the gold medal game against the Americans.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Jaren Barajas shoots on his backyard hoop maybe once a month these days. He's a busy 18-year-old college student now, so basketball has taken a backburner to academics.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The final pregame introduction belonged to none other than Stephen Curry. The big MVP trophy at the end, Curry heaved that up into the air, too, in a fitting finish to his All-Star Game at home. His arena. His fans.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The verdicts were mixed, as would be expected.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The winning total last year: 211 points. The winning total this year: 41 points. An All-Star Game like none other — since it was three games, not one — still had plenty of flash and not a lot of fire.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — LeBron James wanted to play in yet another All-Star Game. His left foot and ankle didn't let him.