After last years debacle that showed many dunks and no competition to speak of, this year?s Rookie Challenge proved to be slightly more exciting with the very talented Sophomore class defeating the Rookies 133-106.

Prior to the game, the players were lectured on showing proper respect for the game by no less an authority than commissioner David Stern.

"He sent his message," Denver Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony said of Stern's pre-game admonition. "He said, 'Don't let it get like it was last year (during the Sophomores' 142-112 blowout at the Staples Center).'"

Carmelo Anthony led the Sophomore team with 31 points and received MVP honors in front of his home crowd in Denver.

"This game was a little bit more competitive than last year," Anthony said.