NBA Stars Criticize League's New All-Star Format

Cade Cunningham and Kawhi Leonard voice concerns over the USA vs. World tournament structure debuting in 2024

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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NBA stars Cade Cunningham and Kawhi Leonard have expressed doubts about the league's redesigned format for the 75th All-Star Game, which features a USA Stars vs. Team World tournament structure instead of the traditional East vs. West matchup. Both players have voiced a preference for the classic format, with Cunningham stating he wants to 'experience what all the greats played in' and Leonard conveying uncertainty about the new setup.

Why it matters

The NBA's decision to overhaul the All-Star Game format is an attempt to revive fan interest and engagement in the event, which has seen declining television ratings in recent years. However, the mixed reactions from high-profile players like Cunningham and Leonard suggest the league may face challenges in convincing participants and audiences that the new format enhances the prestige and competitiveness of the showcase.

The details

The 2024 All-Star Game will feature a three-team configuration: USA Stars, USA Stripes, and Team World. These teams will compete in a mini round-robin tournament consisting of four 12-minute games, followed by a championship game between the top two teams. The aim is to create a more engaging and competitive atmosphere, countering fan concerns about the recent lack of intensity and declining television ratings.

  • The 75th NBA All-Star Game is scheduled for Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 5 p.m. ET.
  • The new USA vs. World format is set to debut in 2024.

The players

Cade Cunningham

A Detroit Pistons star making his second consecutive All-Star appearance, averaging a career-best 25.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 9.6 assists per game this season.

Kawhi Leonard

A Los Angeles Clippers player and four-time All-Star who was recently appointed by Commissioner Adam Silver as a replacement pick for the U.S. pool.

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What they’re saying

“With the teams split up you don't really know who you're playing with or what the score is. I can't say I hate it or love it because I really don't know what the situation is. I know it's three teams and it's like a pickup game where we wait until somebody scores, but I'd rather just be East and West and just go out there and compete and see what the outcome is. I don't think no format could make you compete.”

— Kawhi Leonard, NBA Player (theconwaybulletin.com)

“I would like to experience the East vs West. I want to be able to experience what all the greats played in.”

— Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons Star (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

As the 75th NBA All-Star Game unfolds at the Intuit Dome, the league will be closely watching to evaluate the impact of these format changes on gameplay intensity, audience engagement, and overall reception by both players and fans.

The takeaway

The NBA's decision to overhaul the traditional East vs. West All-Star format has faced pushback from some of the league's biggest stars, who have voiced a preference for the classic matchup. This suggests the league may struggle to convince players and fans that the new USA vs. World tournament structure enhances the prestige and competitiveness of the showcase event.