New Format for NBA All-Star Game 2026

The NBA has unveiled a fresh format for the All-Star Game this year, aiming to restore competitiveness and excitement. Gone are the traditional East vs. West showdowns and the captain-led rosters. Instead, get ready for a three-team battle: USA Red, USA Blue, and the Rest of the World.

Format and Rules

• ① Six teams qualify from the preliminary rounds, leading to three finalists.
• ② Final round consists of two 12-minute games: winners meet in the final, while losers compete for third place.
• ③ If teams are tied after two games, the one with the best record advances to the final.

Rosters and Starters

The 24-player roster consists of:

• USA Red: Barnes, Booker, Cunningham, Duren, Edwards, Holmgren, Johnson, Maxey
• USA Blue: Brown, Brunson, Durant, Ingram, James, Leonard, Mitchell, Powell
• Rest of the World: Avdija, Doncic, Jokic, Murray, Sengun, Siakam, Towns, Wembanyama

Kawhi Leonard joined the roster to meet the U.S. quota.

Schedule and Broadcast Details

• Contest Saturday: Feb 14, 4:00 PM CDT (Triple Contest, Shooting Stars, Dunk Contest)
• Rising Stars and Celebrity Game: Feb 13, 6:00 PM CDT
• NBA All-Star Game: Feb 15, 4:00 PM CDT, at the Intuit Dome, Inglewood

Watch live in Mexico on ESPN, Disney+, and NBA League Pass.

Why Watch the NBA All-Star Game 2026?

This year’s All-Star Game promises a thrilling new format, a star-studded roster, and exciting contests on the sidelines. Don’t miss out on the action as the world’s best basketball players compete in a unique, high-stakes tournament.