NBA Rising Stars Game Highlights Busy All-Star Weekend

Rookie and sophomore players showcase their skills in annual exhibition match.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The NBA Rising Stars Challenge, featuring top rookie and sophomore players, will be the marquee event on the schedule for the first night of NBA All-Star Weekend festivities in Los Angeles. The exhibition game provides a platform for the league's up-and-coming talent to showcase their skills in front of a national audience.

Why it matters

The Rising Stars game is a fan-favorite event that gives a glimpse of the NBA's future stars. It also kicks off a packed schedule of high-profile All-Star events in Los Angeles, one of the league's premier markets.

The details

The rosters for the Rising Stars game are composed of first and second-year NBA players, divided into two teams - U.S. and World. The players compete in a mini-tournament format, with the winning team earning bragging rights. The game features a mix of rising young stars, including recent high draft picks and international prospects.

  • The Rising Stars Challenge will take place on Friday, February 14, 2026.
  • NBA All-Star Weekend is scheduled for February 14-16, 2026 in Los Angeles.

The players

Kon Knueppel

A rookie forward for the Charlotte Hornets, Knueppel was the 7th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

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What they’re saying

“The Rising Stars game is always a fun way to kick off All-Star Weekend and get a look at the next generation of NBA talent.”

— James H. Williams, USA TODAY Reporter (USA TODAY)

What’s next

The Rising Stars Challenge will be followed by the NBA All-Star Saturday Night events, including the Skills Challenge, 3-Point Contest, and Slam Dunk Contest. The NBA All-Star Game will take place on Sunday, February 16th.

The takeaway

The NBA Rising Stars game provides an exciting preview of the league's future, showcasing the skills and potential of top rookie and sophomore players as they compete in a high-energy exhibition to kick off the league's marquee All-Star Weekend festivities.