Heat's Powell Eliminated at All-Star Game as Team World Falls Twice

Norman Powell's first NBA All-Star appearance ends in double defeat for his World team.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Miami Heat forward Norman Powell played in two 12-minute games for Team World at the NBA All-Star Game's new World vs. USA format, but his team lost both contests. Powell went scoreless in the first game, a 37-35 overtime loss to Team Stars, and scored 5 points in the second game, a 48-45 defeat against Team Stripes. The 32-year-old Powell was selected as an All-Star reserve by Eastern Conference coaches, but his team was unable to secure any wins against the domestic talent.

Why it matters

The new World vs. USA format at the NBA All-Star Game provided an opportunity for international players like Powell to represent their heritage, but his Team World squad was ultimately outmatched by the American talent. This highlights the continued dominance of U.S. players in the league and the challenges international stars face in making an impact at the league's premier annual event.

The details

Playing off the bench, Powell went 0-for-3 shooting in 6:55 of action in the first game, which Team Stars won 37-35 in overtime on a 3-pointer by Toronto's Scottie Barnes. In the second game, Powell scored 5 points on 2-of-4 shooting in 6:45, helping tie the game late before Kawhi Leonard's 3-pointer gave Team Stripes a 48-45 victory.

  • The NBA All-Star Game took place on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • Powell competed in the 3-point contest on All-Star Saturday the previous day.

The players

Norman Powell

A 32-year-old forward for the Miami Heat who was selected as an All-Star reserve by Eastern Conference coaches.

Scottie Barnes

A star player for the Toronto Raptors who hit the game-winning 3-pointer for Team Stars.

Kawhi Leonard

The Los Angeles Clippers forward who hit the decisive 3-pointer to give Team Stripes the victory over Team World.

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What’s next

The Heat will resume their regular season schedule on Friday, February 21, 2026 against the Atlanta Hawks.

The takeaway

Norman Powell's first NBA All-Star experience ended in disappointment, as his Team World squad was unable to secure a victory against the superior American talent. This highlights the continued dominance of U.S. players in the league and the challenges international stars face in making an impact at the league's premier annual event.