2026 NBA All-Star Game To Have USA Vs World Format | Sports News

This change follows last February’s tournament-style format, which featured celebrity-picked rosters but was deemed unsuccessful by players and attracted relatively low television ratings in the US.

When asked on Fox Sports One about the possibility of a USA versus the World format for the All-Star Game, Silver responded affirmatively.

“Next year, under our new media deal, the All-Star Game will return to NBC, coinciding with the Winter Olympics,” Silver stated.

“The game will air on NBC, and the Winter Olympic events will serve as the lead-in. The All-Star Game will take place in the afternoon instead of the evening, followed by more Olympic events.

“It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase a USA versus the World format.”

This format could see Canada’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, this season’s NBA Most Valuable Player from Oklahoma City, facing off against American Tyrese Haliburton from NBA Finals rival Indiana.

It might also feature LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry representing the US against global stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokic, and Victor Wembanyama.

Although no specific format has been finalised, Silver mentioned that the NBA is considering the success of the NHL’s Four-Nations Face-Off last February, which garnered significant attention for the USA-Canada rivalry.

“I’m not exactly sure what the format will be yet,” Silver said. “We paid a lot of attention to the NHL’s approach, which was very successful.”

Silver also highlighted the impressive US TV ratings for last year’s Paris Olympic basketball tournament, which was won by the US team featuring NBA stars.