After the All-Star festivities concluded, Doncic addressed the media and offered a positive update on the hamstring injury that had sidelined him for the previous four games. The Slovenian star made it clear that participating, even in a limited fashion, was important to him.

“It was good. Obviously, the fans voted for me in this game, so I wanted to be there. I played a little bit, but it felt good,” Doncic said when asked about how his hamstring responded to the brief action.

Doncic, who received the most votes among Western Conference players for this year’s All-Star selection, logged just five minutes in the opening game before shutting it down. He finished with two points and two assists, shooting one of three from the field, as the Lakers prioritized caution over risk.

Doncic critiques Team World performance at All Star

Later in the press conference, Doncic reflected on Team World’s showing under the event’s new format. He suggested that injuries, much like those affecting the Lakers in the NBA season, also impacted Team World’s overall rhythm and depth.

“Yeah, I think it was good, you could see it was a little bit better,” Doncic said. “They added one more game, but we didn’t make it, and we had some injuries on our team again. We’ll be better next year, hopefully.”

Doncic also echoed the sentiments of several fellow All-Stars by crediting Victor Wembanyama for raising the competitive intensity. According to Doncic, Wembanyama’s approach set the tone and pushed others to elevate their performance throughout the event.

As for his immediate future, Doncic remained cautious when asked about playing Friday at home against the Los Angeles Clippers. “We’ll see,” he said. LeBron James also acknowledged that health remains the Lakers’ biggest obstacle, a sentiment Doncic clearly shares as Los Angeles looks to reestablish itself in the postseason race.

When asked by a reporter, “Will we see you in Miami next year?” following the All-Star spectacle, Antetokounmpo, affectionately known as the “Greek Freak,” quipped, “For vacation.” This light-hearted response ignited social media, fueling speculation that the Miami Heat, reportedly interested during the last trade deadline, could be in his future.

While no definitive conclusions can be drawn about Antetokounmpo’s future, his playful remark left fans intrigued. Known for his humorous and unpredictable answers regarding his NBA journey, this instance was no different.

Although Giannis anticipates a Miami vacation next year, his tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks remains complicated. Reports suggest both he and the organization have explored trade avenues. Yet, the Bucks, who have achieved championship glory with Giannis, retain him for now.

Potential destinations beyond Miami for Giannis

If Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn’t end up with the Miami Heat, as trade speculation around the Bucks continues into next season, several teams are positioned as appealing alternatives, having shown interest during the trade deadline.

The Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves emerge as primary contenders interested in acquiring Antetokounmpo before the trade window closed, joining Miami in monitoring his availability, as well as the New York Knicks.

While rumors swirl about his next chapter, Antetokounmpo remains committed to his current stint with the Bucks, aiming to secure a playoff berth. Nonetheless, discussions with the Bucks’ front office about his long-term plans could occur this summer.

Wembanyama’s intensity, even in an exhibition setting, reflected how deeply he respects the sport. “It’s the game we love. Being competitive is the least I can do,” he said after the event, via ESPN. His words matched what fans had just watched.

In Team World’s opener in the round robin, Wembanyama scored 14 points, grabbed six rebounds and blocked three shots in a 37-35 overtime loss. In the next matchup against Team Stripes, the 2023 top pick poured in 19 points with two rebounds, but the effort still ended in a 48-45 defeat.

Kawhi Leonard, once a cornerstone for San Antonio Spurs, took control for Team Stripes in that contest and erupted for 31 points on 11 of 13 shooting. Wembanyama’s frustration with losing was evident, and the Spurs surely appreciated seeing that fire from the player they view as their foundation.

Wembanyama’s season with the Spurs

At the break, the French phenom is averaging 24.4 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.7 blocks across 40 games. He is shooting 51.1 percent from the field and 36.3 percent from three, production that continues to justify the enormous expectations surrounding him.

More All-Star nods should come with time, but those will have to wait. For now, Wembanyama and the Spurs are focused on the regular NBA season as they prepare to host the Phoenix Suns on Thursday, aiming to build momentum for the stretch run.

Had Team World reached the final and had Wembanyama delivered another standout performance, he might have locked up the MVP, given what he showed in the first two games. It would have been wild, but chances are he will have many more opportunities to chase that honor in the years ahead.

James now owns an unusual all-time record, the most losses in All-Star Game history. Having appeared in a record 21 editions from 2005 through 2026, volume alone placed him in a position to stack defeats along with victories. Longevity created the mark, and durability allowed it to grow.

Back in 2024, he became the first player to reach 10 losses. After the outcomes in 2025 and this season under the new structure, that total climbed to 11. His overall balance in the event stood at 10 wins against 11 defeats, a rare statistic for someone who has dominated nearly every other historical category.

On the court, James still made his presence felt. He finished with 15 points, seven rebounds and five assists while the shortened quarters heightened the tempo and sharpened the competitive edge. The international flavor, mixed with contrasting generations of American stars, helped create a setting in which the younger group ultimately walked away with the bragging rights.

List of players with the most losses

1. LeBron James: 11 losses, 21 games played
2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: 9 losses, 18 games played
3. Kevin Garnett: 8 losses, 14 games played
4. Magic Johnson: 8 losses, 11 games played
5. Wilt Chamberlain: 8 losses, 13 games played
6. Michael Jordan: 7 losses, 13 games played

LeBron James path in the All-Star Game

James has been selected as an All-Star in every season of his career except his rookie year. For more than two decades, he represented the league’s gold standard of popularity and performance, earning the trust of fans and peers alike. That consistency helped him build unmatched cumulative numbers.

He captured All-Star Game MVP honors three times, in 2006, 2008 and 2018, tying him with icons such as Jordan, Shaquille O Neal, and Oscar Robertson. His first award came in Houston, when he was just 21 years old and orchestrated a dramatic comeback for the Eastern Conference. Two years later in New Orleans, he nearly posted a triple-double while reaffirming his status as the face of the league.

His third trophy arrived in Los Angeles in 2018 during the debut of the captains’ draft format. Team LeBron edged Team Stephen in a tight finish, and James delivered 29 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists to underline that even in an exhibition, he competed to win. Despite holding the record for total points and selections, he remained one shy of matching the four NBA All-Star MVPs shared by Kobe Bryant and Bob Pettit.

[Watch 2026 NBA All-Star Game online in the US on Peacock]

The NBA’s midseason showcase gets a major makeover as the NBA All-Star Game shifts to a three-team round-robin format, promising faster action and more star-on-star matchups. Team World, led by Darko Rajaković, features Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Dončić, Nikola Jokić and Victor Wembanyama.

Meanwhile Team USA Stripes (Mitch Johnson) brings LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Jalen Brunson, and Team USA Stars (J. B. Bickerstaff) relies on Anthony Edwards, Scottie Barnes and Cade Cunningham. With MVPs, rising phenoms and global icons sharing the floor, this revamped showdown is packed with must-see moments—don’t miss it.

When will the 2026 NBA All-Star Game take place?

The 2026 NBA All-Star Game will take place this Sunday, February 15. The game will start at 5:00 PM (ET).

2026 NBA All-Star Game: Time by State in the USA

ET: 5:00 PM
CT: 4:00 PM
MT: 3:00 PM
PT: 2:00 PM

How to watch 2026 NBA All-Star Game in the USA

Catch al the action of this 2026 NBA All-Star Game in the USA on Peacock Premium. Other options: DirecTV Stream and NBC.

Amid the buzz at the Intuit Dome, familiar anthems will herald tip‑off on Sunday afternoon. A R&B singer has been tapped to deliver the U.S. national anthem, while a celebrated Canadian artist will carry the melody for “O Canada”.

These choices underline how the All‑Star Weekend has grown into a cultural showcase as much as a basketball festival. In a city known for entertainment, the voices before the game will hint at the glittering line‑up to follow.

Who will perform the U.S. and Canadian national anthems?

For the U.S. national anthem, Grammy‑winning singer and actress Brandy Norwood has been selected to take the stage before Sunday’s 5 p.m. ET tip‑off at the Intuit Dome. The R&B artist, known for her influential catalog and impact on modern vocals, adds star power to the pregame proceedings.

Representing the other side of the border, three‑time Grammy winner Sarah McLachlan will perform the Canadian national anthem. Her career has spanned decades with her signature emotive songwriting and performances, making her a fitting choice for a global sporting event that unites fans from both countries.

Their anthem performances are part of a broader entertainment slate that includes a historic live rendition of “Roundball Rock” by composer John Tesh, as well as music from artists like Ludacris and K‑pop group CORTIS throughout the weekend.

National anthems through All-Star history

The NBA All-Star Game has a long tradition of featuring standout artists to perform the national anthems, turning the pregame into a cultural moment as much as a sporting one. From pop icons to classical singers, these performances have often set the tone for the weekend’s excitement.

Past editions have seen legendary voices like Whitney Houston, who famously performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the 1991 All-Star Game, and Celine Dion, whose rendition of “O Canada” captivated fans in 1998. These moments have become highlights in NBA history.

In recent years, the league has continued to blend musical talent with All-Star spectacle, selecting artists who resonate with both longtime fans and a younger, global audience. The choice of Brandy and Sarah McLachlan for 2026 reflects this ongoing commitment to creating a memorable pregame experience.

The return of John Tesh adds a layer of nostalgia tied to decades of basketball broadcasts, reconnecting the modern showcase with a theme that helped define how generations remember the sport on television.

What unfolds in those opening moments is expected to bridge past and present, turning a simple pregame ritual into a shared memory that resonates well beyond the first possession.

What song will John Tesh perform?

The pregame spotlight at the NBA All-Star Game 2026 will belong to John Tesh, who is set to perform his iconic theme Roundball Rock live as part of the Sunday introduction. The moment reconnects the modern showcase with a sound that once defined basketball television for an entire generation.

Best known as the signature music of NBC’s NBA coverage from 1990 to 2002, the composition now returns alongside the network’s renewed partnership with the league. This performance also marks the first time the piece will be played live inside a sports arena, transforming a familiar broadcast anthem into an in-arena experience.

Music shapes the entire weekend’s presentation. On Saturday, Ludacris is scheduled to headline the entertainment leading into the dunk contest, while Sunday’s pregame ceremony will feature national anthem performances from Brandy and Sarah McLachlan.

Together, those appearances frame a celebration that blends nostalgia, star power and the league’s latest broadcast era on platforms including Peacock, according to the NBA.

Ludacris performed the following tracks: Move B**ch, Stand Up and All I Do Is Win. After running through those hits, he wrapped up his show to roaring applause, leaving the arena fully ready for the competition to tip off.

The rapper has maintained a strong relationship with the NBA for years, including a memorable performance at the 2012 All-Star Game, reinforcing his place as a recurring figure in league celebrations. His continued presence at marquee events highlights both his longevity and his impact within the genre. Invitations like this one further validate a career that has crossed generations of fans.

What is next for Ludacris?

In addition to his appearance, Ludacris joins Shaboozey and CORTIS as part of the NBA Crossover Concert Series. The multi-day experience takes place from February 12 to February 15 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, uniting music and basketball culture. The league continues to expand its entertainment footprint throughout the weekend.

Other participants in the All-Star event

CORTIS also delivered a special performance during halftime of the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game at the Kia Forum. The showcase included appearances by GloRilla and Mustard, broadening the international and urban presence across the celebration. Music once again played a central role in shaping the atmosphere.

For the main event, Brandy performed the United States national anthem, while Sarah McLachlan handled Canada’s. The star-studded night unfolded at the Intuit Dome, adding another layer of prestige to the weekend. The ceremony blended tradition with contemporary star power.

Finally, Jon Tesh brought nostalgia with a live rendition of “Roundball Rock,” a theme long associated with the sport’s biggest stages. His performance served as a bridge between eras, reminding fans of the league’s rich entertainment history. With music and basketball intertwined, the spectacle promises to be unforgettable.

Momentum from recent festivities continues to echo beyond Southern California, shifting attention toward Phoenix, where preparations are expected to merge elite competition, fan culture and entertainment into a single February showcase.

Long before opening tip, the spotlight is already drifting toward the arena set to host the weekend’s signature moment, reinforcing how each All-Star destination becomes part of the NBA’s evolving story as much as the game itself.

Dates and venue for the 2027 NBA All-Star Game

NBA All-Star Weekend 2027 is officially scheduled for Feb. 19-21. The centerpiece game will take place on Sunday, Feb. 21, inside the Mortgage Matchup Center, home of the Suns and the primary stage for the league’s signature event.

As in previous editions, the weekend is expected to follow the traditional structure. Rising Stars will spotlight emerging talent, Saturday night will feature the league’s skills competitions and multiple interactive experiences will bring fans closer to players, legends, and celebrities across the metropolitan area.

The selection also carries historical relevance. This will mark the fourth time Phoenix hosts NBA All-Star festivities and the first return since 2009, reinforcing the city’s place within the league’s rotation of proven showcase destinations.

How the 2026 All-Star Weekend connects to 2027

Before the NBA turns fully toward Arizona, the 2026 celebration unfolds in Los Angeles from Feb. 13-15. That weekend culminates with the 75th All-Star Game at the Intuit Dome, introducing the Clippers’ new arena to one of basketball’s most watched global audiences.

The schedule begins with Rising Stars on Friday and continues with the traditional slate of Saturday night contests, leading into Sunday’s headline matchup. Around those games, the league organizes fan-focused programming designed to extend the experience beyond the court.

Events and activations are spread across venues including the Kia Forum and the Los Angeles Convention Center, offering access to NBA figures and entertainment throughout the city. That magnitude and structure provide the blueprint Phoenix is expected to follow in 2027.

From opening notes before tip-off to headline performances woven between marquee events, the weekend’s musical presence reflects the league’s evolving identity. These moments often capture as much attention as the dunks and deep threes that define the on-court spectacle.

What unfolds across the festivities is more than entertainment between games; it’s a curated soundtrack for one of sports’ most visible gatherings. The names attached to this year’s performances hint at energy, legacy, and a few surprises still waiting behind the curtain.

Star performances headline Saturday and Sunday

Three-time GRAMMY winner Ludacris leads the weekend’s live entertainment, taking center court ahead of the AT&T Slam Dunk on All-Star Saturday. His in-arena show is designed to heighten the atmosphere before one of the event’s most anticipated competitions tips off for a global audience.

Sunday introduces a different kind of milestone. Legendary composer and broadcaster John Tesh performs Roundball Rock live inside an arena for the first time, marking both the 75th All-Star Game and the league’s return to NBC after more than two decades.

Before tip-off, award-winning artists Brandy and Sarah McLachlan deliver the U.S. and Canadian national anthems, respectively—continuing the tradition of pairing basketball’s biggest night with globally recognized voices.

Rising talent and concerts shape the All-Star weekend

Friday’s showcase begins with anthem performances tied to the Castrol Rising Stars, where Aiden Ross and Chxrry represent the United States and Canada. Earlier, the NBA HBCU Classic features GRAMMY-nominated performer Chlöe Bailey, blending ceremony with cultural recognition.

Entertainment continues during the Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, highlighted by a halftime show from K-pop group CORTIS. Across the weekend, additional appearances from Shaboozey, Ludacris and CORTIS unfold during the NBA Crossover Concert Series in downtown Los Angeles.

Guiding the overall sound is Emmy-winning musical director Adam Blackstone, whose role ties together the event’s many performances. The result is a program where basketball and live music share equal billing, reinforcing All-Star weekend’s identity as both sporting showcase and cultural festival.

From rising vocal talents to established performers, anthem selections now reflect the league’s broader cultural stage. Both the Castrol Rising Stars and the NBA HBCU Classic blend competition with ceremony.

As anticipation builds inside Intuit Dome and viewers tune in through Peacock, attention turns to the artists chosen to deliver those defining first notes—voices meant to match the scale and symbolism of the occasion.

Rising Stars pregame anthems spotlight emerging voices

Before tip-off of the Rising Stars matchup, the spotlight belongs to a pair of performers representing different musical paths and national identities. Aiden Ross, fresh off a televised breakthrough on The Voice, is set to perform the United States national anthem, marking a big moment early in his career.

He is joined by Toronto-born artist Chxrry, who will deliver the Canadian anthem, reinforcing the international flavor that Rising Stars traditionally celebrates. The game itself is scheduled for a 9 PM ET start, positioning the performances as the ceremonial gateway to Friday night’s on-court action.

HBCU Classic pairs star power with cultural tribute

Later in the evening, the focus shifts to the HBCU Classic. GRAMMY-nominated singer and actress Chlöe Bailey has been selected to perform the U.S. national anthem along with “Lift Every Voice and Sing”, a song deeply connected to Black heritage and celebration.

The event, presented by AT&T, tips off at 8 PM ET and streams on Peacock, continuing the All-Star tradition of merging basketball, performance, and community recognition. Together, the night’s anthem choices highlight how the league uses its global stage to elevate both emerging talent and meaningful cultural expression.