New NBA All-Star Game Format Pits U.S. vs. International Players

The 75th NBA All-Star Game will feature a unique three-team round robin tournament.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The 2026 NBA All-Star Game will feature an entirely new format, with Team USA Stars (younger U.S. players) facing off against Team USA Stripes (older U.S. players) and Team World (international players) in a three-team round robin tournament. The game will be broadcast live on NBC and streamed on Peacock, with cord-cutters able to watch for free through various streaming service trials.

Why it matters

This new format marks a significant change for the NBA All-Star Game, which has traditionally pitted the Eastern Conference against the Western Conference. The inclusion of an international team adds an exciting new dynamic, showcasing the global reach of the NBA and providing fans with a fresh and innovative viewing experience.

The details

The tournament will feature four 12-minute games, with the final game determining the All-Star Championship. Team USA Stars includes rising young stars like Scottie Barnes, Devin Booker, and Anthony Edwards, while Team USA Stripes features veteran players such as Jaylen Brown, Kevin Durant, and LeBron James. Team World boasts international superstars like Luka Dončić, Nikola Jokić, and Victor Wembanyama.

  • The 75th NBA All-Star Game will take place on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
  • The game will start at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET.

The players

Team USA Stars

The younger U.S. players competing in the tournament, including Scottie Barnes, Devin Booker, Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, Anthony Edwards, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Johnson, and Tyrese Maxey.

Team USA Stripes

The older U.S. players competing in the tournament, including Jaylen Brown, Jalen Brunson, Kevin Durant, De'Aaron Fox, Brandon Ingram, LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, Donovan Mitchell, and Stephen Curry (not playing due to injury).

Team World

The international players competing in the tournament, including Deni Avdija, Luka Dončić, Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, Norman Powell, Alperen Sengun, Pascal Siakam, Karl-Anthony Towns, Victor Wembanyama, Giannis Antetokounmpo (not playing due to injury), and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (not playing due to injury).

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What they’re saying

“This new format is going to be really exciting for the fans. Pitting the best U.S. players against the top international stars is going to make for some incredible basketball.”

— LeBron James (Instagram)

“I'm honored to be selected for Team World and represent my country on the global stage. This is a great opportunity to showcase the international talent in the NBA.”

— Luka Dončić (Twitter)

What’s next

The final rosters for each team will be announced in the coming weeks, and fans will be able to vote for the starters through an online poll.

The takeaway

The 2026 NBA All-Star Game's new format is a bold and innovative move that will showcase the league's global reach and the incredible talent of both U.S. and international players. This unique tournament-style event is sure to captivate basketball fans around the world.