2026 NBA All-Star Game Preview: Starters, Reserves & The New USA Vs World Format

NBA All-Star Game Preview: Starters, Reserves, and a Fresh Format

The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is shaping into one of the most unique midseason showcases in league history. The players were announced recently, with a mix of perennial stars and dynamic playmakers earning fan, media, and player votes ahead of the Feb. 15 game in Los Angeles.

All-Star Starters

Eastern Conference Starters

• Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)

• Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics)

• Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)

• Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons)

• Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers)

Western Conference Starters

• Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)

• Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers)

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)

• Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets)

• Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)

These 10 starters represent the most voted players from each conference and include a blend of veteran champions and rising MVP contenders.

All-Star Reserves

Thanks to All Star announcements, the current 24 player pool looks to break down into 15 U.S. players and 9 international players, reflecting the unique balance the NBA is seeking for this year’s format.

U.S. All-Stars (15 Total)

Cade Cunningham, Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, plus:

• Donovan Mitchell

• Jalen Johnson

• Scottie Barnes

• Jalen Duren

• Karl-Anthony Towns

• Norman Powell

• Chet Holmgren

• Anthony Edwards

• Stephen Curry

• Kevin Durant

• Devin Booker

International All-Stars (9 Total)

Giannis Antetokounmpo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Dončić, Nikola Jokić, Victor Wembanyama, plus:

• Pascal Siakam

• Jamal Murray

• Alperen Şengün

• Deni Avdija

New Format Recap: Two USA Teams and One World Team

The 2026 All Star Game is unlike any other in recent memory. Instead of the traditional East vs. West or captain draft, the league unveiled a three team round robin format featuring:

• Two USA teams comprised of American players

• One World (international) team made up of top global stars

With the current outlooks one more USA player is still needed for the 16-8 (now 16-9) format that the league set forward there are a number of players still waiting on a call for that coveted final spot, including perennial All Star LeBron James.

Each team will play a round robin tournament of 12 minute games, with the top two squads advancing to a final championship matchup. Point differential serves as the tiebreaker if needed.

This structure was designed to promote competitive intensity while highlighting the NBA’s deep international talent base, from MVP favorites to breakout stars, and create more meaningful action throughout All Star Sunday.

Pregame Sports Bar Crawl: Las Vegas Edition

Experience the excitement of the game like never before with our Pregame Sports pub crawl in Las Vegas! Join fellow sports fans for exclusive drink specials at some of the city's best sports bars. It's the ultimate way to gear up for game night, whether you're repping your squad or just in it for the fun. Stay tuned for upcoming dates and exclusive deals!