Chet Holmgren shines in NBA All-Star Game debut

OKC Thunder star helps USA Stars win tournament title in first All-Star appearance

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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OKC Thunder forward Chet Holmgren made his first NBA All-Star Game appearance on Sunday, helping the USA Stars team win the tournament title. Holmgren came off the bench and made an impact on both ends of the court, recording 8 points, 2 rebounds, and a game-high 2 blocks in just 6 minutes of play during the championship game. Despite being unfamiliar with the new tournament format, Holmgren stayed "in the moment" and played his usual brand of basketball, appreciating the opportunity to compete alongside some of the league's biggest stars.

Why it matters

Holmgren's strong performance in his All-Star debut is a testament to his rapid development and growing status as one of the league's top young talents. As the centerpiece of the Thunder's rebuild, Holmgren's continued growth and success will be crucial to the franchise's long-term outlook.

The details

Holmgren was one of the key contributors for the USA Stars team, which advanced to the championship round after the World team lost their matchup against the Stripes. In the title game, Holmgren made the most of his limited minutes, shooting 3-for-4 from the field and providing a defensive presence with his two blocks. Despite being unfamiliar with the tournament format, Holmgren said he tried to stay "in the moment" and just focus on playing his game.

  • The USA Stars team watched the World vs. Stripes matchup from their locker room on Sunday night, waiting to see if they would advance to the championship round.
  • Holmgren participated in the Shooting Stars competition on Saturday as part of the NBA All-Star Weekend festivities.
  • Holmgren received a ring before Sunday's tournament to commemorate his first NBA All-Star selection, which he says he didn't even know was going to happen.

The players

Chet Holmgren

A 23-year-old forward for the Oklahoma City Thunder who is making his first NBA All-Star Game appearance.

Tyrese Maxey

A guard for the USA Stars team who was seen drinking Gatorade in the locker room before the championship game.

Jalen Johnson

A forward for the USA Stars team who was eating chicken tenders from concessions in the locker room before the championship game.

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What they’re saying

“I think that's the one thing that's tough about having a three-team, team-off-and-team-on thing. We went back in the locker room for like 20 or 30 minutes while the other two teams were playing. We were kind of just chilling, sitting there and watching it.”

— Chet Holmgren (The Oklahoman)

“I just tried to take a moment to reflect on how cool of an opportunity this is. I felt like I was pretty in the moment for the most part, just taking everything in.”

— Chet Holmgren (The Oklahoman)

What’s next

The Thunder will continue to monitor Holmgren's development and hope he can build on his strong All-Star debut as they push for another deep playoff run.

The takeaway

Chet Holmgren's impressive performance in his first NBA All-Star Game showcases his immense talent and potential, solidifying his status as one of the league's most promising young stars. His ability to make an impact on both ends of the court while staying "in the moment" bodes well for his continued growth and the Thunder's future.