Obama Invites NBA Stars to New Presidential Center

Former President Barack Obama extends an open invitation to the basketball world to attend the opening of his new Presidential Center in Chicago.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama were in attendance at the recent NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles. During the game, a loose ball even found its way into Obama's lap. After the festivities, Obama took to Instagram to extend an open invitation to the NBA community to attend the upcoming opening of his new Presidential Center in Chicago this June.

Why it matters

Obama has long been a passionate basketball fan, dating back to his high school days when he helped lead his team to a state championship. As president, he frequently hosted NBA players at the White House for pick-up games and NCAA tournament bracket challenges. Now, with the opening of his new Presidential Center, Obama is looking to further cement his legacy as a basketball enthusiast by inviting the league's top stars to attend the grand opening.

The details

The Obama Presidential Center, located on the South Side of Chicago, will feature a full-length NBA regulation-style basketball court as one of its amenities. Obama has a history of involvement with the NBA, including becoming a strategic partner for NBA Africa in 2021 and appearing in the documentary 'The Last Dance' as a 'Chicago resident' in 2020. The former president has also shared his all-time starting lineup, which includes friends like Steph Curry as well as legends like Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon.

  • The NBA All-Star Game took place in Los Angeles.
  • Obama posted the open invitation on Instagram.
  • The Obama Presidential Center is scheduled to open in June 2026.

The players

Barack Obama

The 44th President of the United States, known for his passion for basketball dating back to his high school days and continuing through his presidency.

Michelle Obama

The former First Lady, who attended the NBA All-Star Game with her husband.

Steph Curry

NBA superstar who was included in Obama's all-time starting lineup.

Michael Jordan

NBA legend who was also included in Obama's all-time starting lineup.

LeBron James

NBA superstar who was included in Obama's all-time starting lineup and frequently played pick-up games at the White House during Obama's presidency.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“About the extent of my game these days. But everybody's welcome at Home Court when we open the Obama Presidential Center this June.”

— Barack Obama, Former President (Instagram)

What’s next

The Obama Presidential Center is scheduled to open in June 2026, and the former president has extended an open invitation to the NBA community to attend the grand opening event.

The takeaway

Barack Obama's lifelong passion for basketball has been a consistent thread throughout his life, from his high school championship to hosting NBA players at the White House. Now, with the opening of his new Presidential Center in Chicago, Obama is looking to further cement his legacy as a basketball enthusiast by inviting the league's top stars to attend the grand opening celebration.