The 2006 NBA All-Star Game was played on Sunday, February 19, 2006 at the Toyota Center in Houston, home of the Houston Rockets. The game was the 55th annual All-Star game. The theme song was by Houston native Chamillionaire who made a new version of his hit "Turn It Up." Trailing by 21 points, the East rode the hot shooting of LeBron James and the teamwork of the four All-Stars from the Detroit Pistons to a 122–120 victory over the West. The 21-year-old James, who scored 29 points and grabbed six rebounds, became the youngest player to win MVP. With the score tied, Dwyane Wade, who finished with 20 points, hit the game-winning layup with 16 seconds left. Tracy McGrady of the Houston Rockets led all players with a game-high 36 points.
Players
Spectators make their way into Toyota Center through the LaBranch street entrance prior to the tip-off of the 55th NBA All-Star game on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2006.
^INJ Jermaine O'Neal was unable to participate due to injury. ^REP Gilbert Arenas was named as O'Neal's replacement.[1]^1 Vince Carter was named as starter, replacing O'Neal.
The T-Mobile Rookie challenge was played on Friday, February 17, 2006 with the Sophomores beating the Rookies 106–96. Andre Iguodala was named MVP with a game-high 30 points.
* Did not participate due to a family illness. Gilbert Arenas replaced Raja Bell.
Sprite Rising Stars Slam Dunk Contest
Nate Robinson won, beating Andre Iguodala in a dunk-off[2] after the first ever tie in a Slam Dunk Contest. Robinson's win was highly questioned as he had missed several dunks and many speculate that Robinson was only awarded the title because of his small stature.