As Howard-Cooper mentioned, the NBA is using the same format for the Rising Stars Challenge that they used last season, leaving only 10 roster spots available for rookie and sophomore players born in the Unites States.

I don't hate the format in theory, but I am choosing to be selectively salty about it this year because it's a nice little bit of mid-season recognition, and I do believe Willie Cauley-Stein would have had a real case for a spot on that roster under the previous format.

Willie Cauley-Stein has been such an important part of the Kings' success this season. I don't even know how to realistically quantify what he means to this team, because as respectable as his rookie numbers are, they don't do his impact justice. Most importantly, he should like he's doing exactly what he needs to be doing for this roster, despite not being one of just three rookies selected to participate for the United States.

Does this matter? No, not really, but I do want to be a part of the movement that promotes Willie Cauley-Stein as a good basketball player that people should be talking about. If he won't get that recognition from the NBA this year, well, at least I can go to bed with a clear conscious knowing that I did my part. Consider yourself acknowledged, Willie.