NeNe Ward to Represent East Bladen in Historic East-West All-Star Game

Elizabethtown, NC - When NeNe Ward takes the court at Greensboro’s Novant Health Fieldhouse on Monday, July 21st, she’ll be doing more than just representing East Bladen High School—she’ll be stepping into history.

The annual East-West All-Star Basketball Game is one of North Carolina’s most prestigious showcases for graduating seniors. Held at the home of the NBA G-League’s Greensboro Swarm, the event brings together top talent from across the state in a highly anticipated East vs. West showdown.

For Ward, it’s a chance to close out her high school career with one more big moment—and to follow in the footsteps of some of the game’s greats.

“I’m super excited to play in the All-Star game,” Ward said. “It’s such an honor to be chosen! I can’t wait to be out there with all these amazing girls and go up against the West. I’m hoping to learn a lot, grow as a player, and just have fun. This is a moment I’ll never forget!”

And she’s not exaggerating.

The East-West game has a rich legacy of producing players who went on to leave a lasting mark on women’s basketball at the college and professional levels.

In 1994, a then-unknown Allison Feaster took part in this very game before going on to a historic career at Harvard, where she became one of the Ivy League’s all-time greats. She later starred for the WNBA’s Charlotte Sting and became a respected figure in international basketball.

Another alum, Wendy Palmer, played in the 1992 East-West game before earning All-American honors at the University of Virginia and playing 11 seasons in the WNBA. Her toughness and versatility became a model for young players across the state.

And few will forget Charlotte Smith, who suited up for the East in 1991 and later hit one of the most famous shots in NCAA women’s basketball history—her buzzer-beater lifted UNC to a national championship in 1994. Smith later played professionally and is now a college head coach, still pouring into the next generation.

These names add weight to what might otherwise seem like a fun exhibition.

For NeNe Ward, it’s more than just a game—it’s a moment to cement her place in a long line of North Carolina standouts.

And she’s earned it. Known for her leadership, relentless work ethic, and all-around game, Ward has been a driving force for East Bladen’s program over the last four years.

She’ll take the floor alongside other elite seniors from across the eastern half of the state, ready to match up against the best from the West.

And while the scoreboard will matter, the experience is what lasts—competing at a high level, forming new friendships, and learning from coaches and peers who share her passion for the game.

For Bladen County, it’s a proud moment. A local athlete, raised on small-town hardwoods, taking her game to a big-time stage.

And whether it’s a big block, a smooth jumper, or just the joy on her face as she soaks it all in, fans back home will know exactly who they’re cheering for.

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NeNe Ward to Represent East Bladen in Historic East-West All-Star Game