The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is expected to feature a new format that includes three eight-player teams: two U.S. teams and one World team. This change was confirmed by multiple sources to ESPN, marking a significant shift from the traditional single-team All-Star Game structure. The World team will consist of international players, while the two U.S. teams will be composed of domestic stars.
The decision to introduce two U.S. teams appears to be a strategic move to foster more competition and fan engagement within the league. By having two teams from the same country, the NBA aims to increase the excitement and competitiveness of the event. Additionally, the inclusion of a World team could help promote the sport globally, attracting a wider audience across different regions.
The NBA has been actively working on expanding its international presence in recent years, and this change in the All-Star Game format aligns with that goal. The league’s efforts to increase global engagement have included initiatives such as the NBA Global Games and partnerships with international basketball organizations. These steps have helped raise the profile of the NBA in markets outside the United States, making this new format a natural progression in the league’s international strategy.