As far as high school basketball is concerned, it doesn’t get any bigger than the McDonald’s All-American Game. The annual game serves as a showcase for the top high school players in the country, most of whom will be stars in college in the near future and playing in the NBA just a few years down the road. The event was first played in 1978, with the girls’ game being added in 2002. In terms of pure talent on display, the McDonald’s All-American Game is the best event outside of an NBA game. Even the NCAA Final Four may not have as much talent on the floor at one time as the annual McDonald’s All-American Game.

More Than a Game

The McDonald’s All-American Game is far more than just an all-star game; it’s an event that offers far more than the game itself. Since 1985, the event has also included a Dunk Contest. In 1989, the 3-Point Contest was added. In 2002, the Skills Contest was added for both the boys and girls. Also, in 2016, the Legends & Stars Shootout became a part of the festivities, bringing together the current stars of the game with a former All-American.

A Long List

It’s worth noting that not every player who’s invited to the McDonald’s All-American Game will turn into a star. But it’s been used as a building block toward stardom for countless players. Among the greatest players to appear in the McDonald’s All-American Game are Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing, Grant Hill, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Kevin Durant, and countless others. Look on any NBA roster, and you’re bound to find at least a few players who once played in the McDonald’s All-American Game.