BREAKING: The 2026 NBA All-Star Game will feature a groundbreaking round-robin tournament format, including two U.S. teams and one World team, according to sources who spoke with ESPN on Wednesday. This innovative structure aims to elevate the competition and engage fans in a thrilling new way.
The tournament will consist of three teams, each with eight players, playing in 12-minute quarter, Ryder Cup-style matches. The format was presented to the league’s competition committee, which received a positive response from governors, team executives, and players during discussions held earlier today.
Mark your calendars—the 2026 All-Star Game will take place in Los Angeles at the Intuit Dome, the new home of the LA Clippers, on February 15, 2026. In a significant shift, the game will now start in the afternoon instead of the traditional Sunday evening slot, and fans can catch all the action live on NBC.
This year’s All-Star Game format drew mixed reactions, as the previous four-team, single-elimination setup faced criticism over lengthy breaks during play. Responding to feedback, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized the league’s commitment to innovation. Earlier this year, Silver noted, “It presents an enormous opportunity for us to do something with an international competition instead of the traditional All-Star formats.”
The timing of the 2026 All-Star Game is especially intriguing, as it will occur concurrently with the Winter Olympics, highlighting the NBA’s growing international presence. With approximately 70% of players in the league being American, this format is expected to offer international players a better chance at All-Star recognition, giving fans a taste of global basketball rivalry.
As excitement builds for this new tournament style, fans are encouraged to engage with the league as it unveils more details in the coming months. This development marks a pivotal moment for the NBA, blending international flair with the beloved All-Star tradition.
Stay tuned for more updates as the NBA prepares for this thrilling event. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a fresh take on All-Star weekend—an event that promises to redefine how fans experience basketball.