Donovan Mitchell to Lead Team USA Stripes in NBA All-Star Game

All-Star Weekend features new USA vs. World format with 12-minute games

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The 2026 NBA All-Star Game will feature a new format with two teams of American-born players, USA Stripes and USA Stars, competing against a team of international players. Donovan Mitchell, who was eliminated in the Three-Point Contest, will look to lead Team USA Stripes to victory in the championship game.

Why it matters

The new format is designed to make the All-Star Game more entertaining, with four 12-minute games leading up to a championship matchup. Mitchell's performance will be closely watched as he tries to redeem himself after a disappointing Three-Point Contest.

The details

The All-Star Game will feature three teams: USA Stripes, USA Stars, and Team World. Each team will play the other two once in 12-minute games, with the top two teams meeting in a championship game. Mitchell is on the USA Stripes team, which is coached by Mitch Johnson and features a mix of veteran and young players. The odds favor the USA Stripes team to win the championship.

  • The All-Star Game will be played on February 15, 2026.
  • The first three games will be at 5:00 pm, 5:55 pm, and 6:25 pm, with the championship game at 7:10 pm.

The players

Donovan Mitchell

A star guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who is looking to lead Team USA Stripes to victory in the new All-Star Game format.

Mitch Johnson

The head coach of the USA Stripes team, which features a mix of veteran and young players.

J.B. Bickerstaff

The head coach of the USA Stars team, which is expected to play a fast-paced offense centered around young star Cade Cunningham.

Darko Rajakovic

The head coach of the Team World squad, which features a mix of international players who are expected to play a slower, more controlled offense.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The injured Milwaukee Bucks star who was originally selected for the USA Stars team but has been replaced by De'Aaron Fox.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This new All-Star Game format promises to be more entertaining, with the USA Stripes team led by Donovan Mitchell looking to prove they can overcome the young talent of the USA Stars and the international flair of Team World.