USA Stars Claim 2026 NBA All-Star Championship

Alperen Şengün Makes History as Second Turkish Player Selected for All-Star Game

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The 2026 NBA All-Star Game featured a new format with two USA teams - USA Stars and USA Stripes - competing against a World Team in a mini-tournament. The USA Stars emerged victorious, defeating the USA Stripes 47-21 in the final. Anthony Edwards was named MVP after leading the USA Stars with 32 points and 9 rebounds across three games. Alperen Şengün made history as the second Turkish player to be selected for the NBA All-Star Game.

Why it matters

The new All-Star format aimed to increase competitiveness and showcase a wider range of talent, reflecting the NBA's growing international appeal. Şengün's selection underscores the league's efforts to attract and develop global stars, contributing to its expanding fanbase and revenue streams.

The details

The USA Stars defeated the World Team 37-35 in the opening match, with Anthony Edwards scoring 13 points. In the second game, USA Stripes beat USA Stars 42-40, led by strong performances from Jaylen Brown and LeBron James. USA Stripes then defeated the World Team 48-45 in the third match, with Kawhi Leonard scoring 31 points. Alperen Şengün contributed 1 point, 1 rebound, and 2 assists during his 6 minutes on the court in this game.

  • The 2026 NBA All-Star Game was held on February 16, 2026 in Los Angeles.
  • Alperen Şengün was selected for the NBA All-Star Game for the second time in his career.

The players

Alperen Şengün

A 23-year-old Turkish basketball player who became only the second Turkish player to be selected for the NBA All-Star Game, following Mehmet Okur.

Anthony Edwards

The MVP of the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, leading the USA Stars with 32 points and 9 rebounds across three games.

Kawhi Leonard

The standout performer for the USA Stripes, scoring 31 points in their 48-45 victory over the World Team.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Alperen Şengün's selection for the NBA All-Star Game highlights the league's growing international appeal and its efforts to attract and develop global stars. The new All-Star format aims to increase competitiveness and showcase a wider range of talent, contributing to the NBA's continued evolution and expansion.