NBA All-Star Weekend 2026: A Weekend of Basketball and Innovation in Los Angeles
NBA All-Star Weekend has returned to Los Angeles, bringing a flurry of basketball action and entertainment to Southern California. From the Rising Stars Challenge to the All-Star Game itself, the weekend is packed with events. This year’s festivities, taking place February 13-15, showcase not only the league’s brightest stars but also a new format for the All-Star Game and a growing emphasis on fan engagement.
Rising Stars: The Next Generation Shines
The Rising Stars Challenge kicked off the weekend, featuring the league’s top rookies and sophomores. Whereas Cooper Flagg was sidelined due to a foot injury and Alexandre Sarr was absent with a hamstring issue, Zaccharie Risacher represented France in the competition. The event utilized a mini-tournament format with four teams – Team Melo, Team Austin (G League), Team Vince, and Team T-Mac – competing in games to 40 and 25 points.
Team Melo was coached by Carmelo Anthony and featured players like Reed Sheppard and Donovan Clingan. Team T-Mac, led by Tracy McGrady, included Zaccharie Risacher. Team Vince was under the guidance of Vince Carter, and Team Austin, representing the G League, was coached by Austin Rivers.
Saturday Night: Skills, Snipers, and Spectacular Dunks
Saturday’s events included the return of the Shooting Stars competition, replacing the Skills Challenge. This competition features teams of NBA players and legends testing their shooting accuracy. The 3-Point Contest featured a strong lineup of shooters, including Damian Lillard, who participated while continuing his recovery from an Achilles tendon injury. Participants also included Devin Booker, Tyrese Maxey, and Jamal Murray.
The Slam Dunk Contest featured Carter Bryant, Jaxson Hayes, Keshad Johnson, and Jase Richardson, hoping to deliver memorable performances. The format consisted of two rounds, with two dunks per participant in the first round and two for the finalists.
A New Look for the All-Star Game: USA vs. World
Sunday’s 75th NBA All-Star Game introduced a new format: USA Stars vs. Team World. This isn’t a traditional game but a mini-tournament with three teams and four 12-minute games. Victor Wembanyama became the first French player to be a starter in the All-Star Game, leading Team World.
USA Stars featured players like Scottie Barnes and Anthony Edwards. USA Stripes included Jaylen Brown and LeBron James. Team World boasted stars like Luka Dončić, Nikola Jokić, and Victor Wembanyama.
Notable absences from the All-Star Game included Stephen Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Fan Fest and Accessibility
Beyond the games, NBA All-Star Weekend offers a comprehensive fan experience. The NBA Crossover fan festival is being held at the LA Convention Center, and the Intuit Dome’s outdoor plaza features a Basketball Blvd. Fan Zone with music, appearances from NBA mascots, and over 20 food and beverage vendors. Events are happening across the greater Los Angeles area, including Inglewood and downtown LA.
FAQ
When is the NBA All-Star Game?
Sunday, February 15th.
Where is NBA All-Star Weekend being held?
Los Angeles, California, with events at the Intuit Dome and LA Convention Center.
What is new about the All-Star Game format this year?
The game features a USA vs. World format with a mini-tournament of four 12-minute games.
Who is playing in the Rising Stars Challenge?
The Rising Stars Challenge features the league’s top rookies and sophomores, including Zaccharie Risacher.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available through platforms like Hellotickets.
Did you know? This is the seventh time Los Angeles has hosted the NBA All-Star Weekend, making it the most frequent location in league history.
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