PHOENIX (WNBA) - Atlanta Dream playmaker Shoni Schimmel wrote herself into WNBA folklore over the weekend as records tumbled in what many including USA national team veteran Cappie Pondexter have described as the best All-Star Game in history.

Schimmel, one of the few players not included on the USA national team pool for 2014-16, made a point by taking the MVP award after leading the East to a thrilling 125-124 success against the West who had been installed as strong pre-game favourites.

The rookie point guard amassed a record-breaking 29 points after putting on a shooting clinic from downtown by sinking seven triples and also handing out eight assists.

It was certainly a dream debut for Schimmel, with fans in Phoenix also treated to seeing overtime in the All-Star Game for the very first time.

With a staggering 15 appearances between them in the showpiece game, the experienced pairing of Pondexter and Tamika Catchings are well placed to judge how good the game actually was.

And, the former was in absolutely no doubt as to where the 2014 editon ranked for her.

"It has to be the best All-Star Game in my opinion," insisted Pondexter.

"The excitement, the level of intensity from both teams and a lot of amazing shots were made.

"It showed the growth of this game."

Meanwhile Catchings added: "This is the first time it went to overtime, so I think that's real exciting.

"Due to the highs and lows of the game, you could just feel like the crowd was in the game the whole time.

"I know they rooting for the West, but I am sure they were happy no matter who won."

There was also a huge performance from Skylar Diggins, who tied the contest in regulation but was eventually denied the scoring record by Schimmel.

Diggins finished with an impressive 27 points and seven assists for the West who had held a seven-point lead in the extra period, but just couldn't get over the line.

Maya Moore also shone brightly in defeat with her usual all-action contribution of 24 points, eight assists and five rebounds to show why she is on course to be a driving force for the USA when they defend their FIBA World Championship for Women title later this year.

FIBA