SerpApi.Org
The 2026 North Carolina East-West All-Star Men’s Basketball Game lived up to its billing Monday night as the West All-Stars erased a large second-half deficit to edge the East All-Stars, 102-101, in an exciting finish at the Novant Health Fieldhouse.
The East appeared to be in control after putting together a dominant second quarter. Trailing by one after the opening period, the East exploded for 43 second-quarter points to take a 63-44 halftime lead and later built its largest advantage of 26 points during the third quarter.
The West, however, refused to go away.
Led by a tremendous offensive performance from Braylon Taylor, the West chipped away at the deficit throughout the second half before completing the comeback in the closing minutes. Taylor poured in a game-high 28 points, knocking down 11-of-23 shots from the field while adding five rebounds to earn top scoring honors.
The West received balanced scoring throughout the lineup. ExZavier Young added 16 points and was dominant on the glass with 10 rebounds, while Colby Elliott scored 14 points on an efficient 6-of-10 shooting performance. Dionte Neal and Josiah Guyton each contributed 12 points, giving the West five players in double figures. Neal hit the game-winning jumper as time expired.
The East had plenty of offensive firepower of its own. Shimere Garris led the team with 24 points, while Will Seward added 22 points on an outstanding 9-of-12 shooting performance. Cam Fowler chipped in 15 points, and Jamie Dance finished with 11 points.
Despite being outrebounded 54-51, the West capitalized on timely baskets and clutch plays down the stretch. The game featured six lead changes and four ties, but the West made the final push to complete one of the most memorable comebacks in recent East-West All-Star history.
The victory capped an entertaining showcase of many of North Carolina’s top graduating seniors, with both teams displaying high-level athleticism, scoring ability, and unselfish play throughout the contest.
Leading Scorers
West All-Stars
・Braylon Taylor – 28 points
・ExZavier Young – 16 points
・Colby Elliott – 14 points
・Dionte Neal – 12 points
・Josiah Guyton – 12 points
East All-Stars
・Shimere Garris – 24 points
・Will Seward – 22 points
・Cam Fowler – 15 points
・Jamie Dance – 11 points
