Elfrid Payon might not show up much on the stat sheet for the 2016 BBVA Rising Stars Challenge, but we're giving him all the credit for the win.

Unlike the typical NBA All-Star Game, the Rising Stars game isn't between the Eastern and Western Conference. The players from the USA take on the growing pool of international talent, and the end result is usually pretty entertaining for NBA fans hungry to familiarize themselves with young talent.

In this year's game, USA beat the WORLD team, 157-154, and it seemed like the players enjoyed the action.

Former Ragin' Cajun Elfrid Payton played in Rising Stars Challenge for the second straight year, but he only registered a steal and a rebound in his 16 minutes on the floor. He missed both of his shot attempts and turned the ball over, but let's not nitpick an exhibition game. Even being invited to the event means Elfrid is handling his business in the NBA.

To illustrate the light-hearted nature of the event, Payton even played against his own teammate.

Elfrid and Mario Hezonja play together on the Orlando Magic, but they got to suit up against each other in the NBA's feature game for their young talent. Payton almost had to play in Philly, so being in the Rising Stars Challenge with some young talent only bodes well for his future with the Magic.

If you're a fan of the Rising Stars game, great. If you're a fan of Elfrid Payton, keep reading.

Payton worked hard in between his rookie and sophomore campaigns to improve his shot, and his three-point percentage has increased by an astounding ten percent. How much of a leap will he make from year two to year three? After all, he's only turning 22 years old later this month.

Congratulations to one of the most beloved Cajun hoopsters to ever suit up in the vermilion and white. If the NBA thinks his star is rising, that only means good things for him and his loved ones.

More From 103.3 The GOAT