The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is set to deliver one of the biggest shakeups in modern All-Star history. Taking place on Sunday, February 15, 2026, this event marks the 75th edition of the NBA All-Star Game and will be hosted by the Los Angeles Clippers at the stunning Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. With a brand-new tournament format and a full weekend packed with star power, the NBA All-Star Weekend 2026 schedule is shaping up to be a must-watch celebration for basketball fans worldwide.
Key Event Details (Quick Info)
- Date: February 15, 2026
- Arena: Intuit Dome
- City: Inglewood, California
- Edition: 75th NBA All-Star Game
Major Format Change: USA vs. The World Tournament
On November 12, 2025, the NBA officially announced a bold new direction. The classic East vs. West matchup is officially retired, and the popular captain’s draft format is also gone. Instead, the league is introducing a three-team round-robin tournament that highlights the growing impact of international superstars while keeping national pride at the center of the event.
This change is designed to make the All-Star Game feel more competitive, more intense, and more meaningful—something fans have been asking for over the past few seasons.
The Tournament Structure (Round-Robin Mini Tournament)
Unlike a traditional 48-minute game, the NBA All-Star Game 2026 format will be a mini-tournament featuring three squads:
- Team USA 1: 8 American stars
- Team USA 2: 8 American stars
- Team World: At least 8 international superstars
How the Games Will Work
Each matchup will be a shortened 12-minute game, creating fast-paced action where every possession matters.
Round-Robin Phase Games:
- Game 1: Team USA 1 vs. Team USA 2
- Game 2: Winner of Game 1 vs. Team World
- Game 3: Loser of Game 1 vs. Team World
Championship Game Rules
After the round-robin phase:
- The two teams with the best records advance to the Championship Game
- If all three teams finish 1–1, the deciding factor will be point differential
This setup rewards teams that play hard from start to finish, adding pressure and excitement similar to international basketball tournaments.
2026 NBA All-Star Weekend Schedule (All Times ET)
The NBA All-Star Weekend 2026 runs for three days and features major events across iconic venues in Los Angeles.
Friday, February 13: Kickoff Night
HBCU Classic – 5:00 PM ET | Kia Forum
Hampton University Pirates vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies
A meaningful rivalry game celebrating HBCU excellence (Peacock).
Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game – 7:00 PM ET | Kia Forum
A fun, high-energy event with celebrities, entertainers, and sports icons (ESPN).
Panini Rising Stars – 9:00 PM ET | Intuit Dome
Top rookies, sophomores, and elite young talent compete in a tournament-style showcase (Peacock).
Saturday, February 14: All-Star Saturday Night
NBA All-Star Saturday Night – 8:00 PM ET | Intuit Dome (NBC & Peacock)
Events include:
- Skills Challenge
- 3-Point Contest
- Slam Dunk Contest
Sunday, February 15: The 75th NBA All-Star Game
Main Event – 5:00 PM ET | Intuit Dome (NBC & Peacock)
The spotlight shines on the new USA vs. World round-robin tournament, delivering nonstop action and a fresh competitive edge for the 75th anniversary game.
With a new format, elite talent, and Los Angeles hosting in style, the NBA All-Star Game 2026 schedule is built for excitement from start to finish.