NBA Rising Stars Challenge 2012: 5 Sleepers to Watch for in Mixed Event

Derrick Williams, F, Minnesota

Williams was desperate for increased playing time, and he got his wish when Kevin Love was suspended, as he slid into a starting role.

He played pretty well in Love's absence, and Rick Adelman would be foolish not to find consistent minutes for the second-overall pick from 2011.

With his ability to score from both inside and out, it wouldn't be surprising to see him use this platform as somewhat of a coming-out party in front of a national audience.

Paul George, G/F, Indiana

George is anything but a sleeper after the season he's had in Indiana, but he's a matchup nightmare for a number of players he could be going against in this one.

He's a much better shooter from beyond the arc than most would imagine, but don't be shocked to see his freakish athleticism be put on display more than once in this fun affair.

A Paul George takeover is extremely possible.

Kawhi Leonard, G/F, San Antonio

In addition to having some of the biggest hands in all of basketball, Leonard's got the skills to really impress those who haven't had a chance to see what he can do.

Leonard isn't afraid to do the dirty work in order to get his offense, and he could be one of the only guys in this game interested in playing a lick of defense.

He's far more athletic than he's built up to be, and Leonard has a chance to shine like he has been for the Spurs this season in Orlando.

Tiago Splitter, F/C, San Antonio

Some were confused by Splitter's inclusion in the game, but his game has really taken off since last season, and it's nice to see him being rewarded.

It's really going to be interesting to see him play against others down beneath the basket in this one, and a potential matchup against DeMarcus Cousins presents a great element of intrigue.

Splitter has a chance to show exactly what he's capable of doing.

Markieff Morris, F, Phoenix

Morris has those who were calling him a bust upon being drafted looking rather ridiculous, as he's had no problem finding his stride offensively in the NBA.

The defensive side of the ball is another story, but Morris has shown that he possesses greater range than even the Suns may have thought upon selecting him.

If he's allowed to get out in space and hover around the perimeter uncontested, Morris could be lighting up the bottom of the net with regularity.