All-Star Weekend Fails to Excite Lackluster LA Crowd

Rising Stars Challenge and Celebrity Game fail to generate buzz

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles has so far failed to generate much excitement, with the Rising Stars Challenge and Celebrity Game drawing a lackluster response from the crowd. V.J. Edgecomb and Team Vince Carter won the Rising Stars Challenge, while Jared McCain took home the Celebrity Game MVP award. Notable player Ajay Mitchell sat out the Rising Stars game.

Why it matters

The lack of energy and enthusiasm from the Los Angeles crowd is concerning, as the NBA relies on the All-Star Weekend to showcase its top talent and generate buzz around the league. A disengaged host city could dampen the overall impact of the festivities.

The details

The Rising Stars Challenge, which features the league's top young talent, was won by V.J. Edgecomb and Team Vince Carter. However, the game failed to generate much excitement from the Los Angeles crowd. Similarly, the Celebrity Game, which features actors, musicians, and other celebrities playing basketball, was won by Jared McCain, but also lacked energy and engagement from the audience.

  • The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend took place in Los Angeles on February 15, 2026.

The players

V.J. Edgecomb

A rising young player who won the Rising Stars Challenge.

Vince Carter

A former NBA star who coached the winning team in the Rising Stars Challenge.

Ajay Mitchell

A notable player who sat out the Rising Stars Challenge.

Jared McCain

The MVP of the Celebrity Game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The lackluster response from the Los Angeles crowd during the NBA All-Star Weekend festivities raises concerns about the city's ability to generate excitement and engagement around the league's marquee event. The NBA will need to closely monitor the situation and consider ways to better connect with the local audience in order to ensure a successful and impactful All-Star Weekend.