LeBron Returns, Rising Stars Shine: What to Watch at the 2026 NBA All-Star Games
INGLEWOOD, Calif. - The NBA’s brightest lights are converging on the brand-new Intuit Dome in Inglewood for the 2026 All-Star Games, and this year’s format brings a fresh twist with a global flair. Tip-off is set for 5 p.m.
ET (2 p.m. PT) on NBC, and if you’re not parked in front of a TV, there are plenty of streaming options to catch the action live.
But beyond how to watch, let’s break down what really matters: who’s playing, how the format works, and why this All-Star showcase has a little extra juice this year.
A New Format with a Global Edge
Forget the traditional East vs. West or even the more recent Team LeBron vs.
Team Giannis setups. The 2026 All-Star Games are going full round-robin with three squads: two U.S.-based teams - Team USA Stars and Team USA Stripes - and one international juggernaut, Team World.
Each team will play two 12-minute games in a mini-tournament format, with the top two squads meeting in a final showdown for All-Star bragging rights.
This setup promises high-paced action and a unique chance to see generational talents and emerging stars go head-to-head - sometimes even teammates facing off under different banners.
Team USA Stars: Youth Movement in Full Swing
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff (Pistons) is leading a squad packed with under-25 firepower. Think of this group as the league’s next wave - and they’re already making serious noise.
- Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves) brings his explosive scoring and fearless mentality.
- Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren (Pistons) give Detroit fans a glimpse of what the future could look like - and a chance to show it on a national stage.
- Chet Holmgren (Thunder) and Scottie Barnes (Raptors) add versatility on both ends.
- Tyrese Maxey (Sixers) and Devin Booker (Suns) round out a backcourt that can light it up in a hurry.
This team is young, hungry, and built to run. Don’t be surprised if they bring the most energy - and maybe a few highlight dunks - to the night.
Team USA Stripes: Veteran Star Power
On the other side of the U.S. bracket, coach Mitch Johnson (Spurs) leads a crew of seasoned All-Stars. This is the “been there, done that” squad - and it’s loaded.
- LeBron James (Lakers) is back after missing last year’s event, and anytime he steps on the court, it’s must-watch basketball.
- Stephen Curry (Warriors) was selected but will sit this one out due to injury.
Brandon Ingram (Raptors) steps in as his replacement.
- Kevin Durant (Rockets), Kawhi Leonard (Clippers), and Jaylen Brown (Celtics) bring elite two-way play.
- Jalen Brunson (Knicks) and De’Aaron Fox (Spurs) offer steady hands and explosive scoring.
- Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers) rounds out a group that’s as experienced as it is dangerous.
This team may not have the legs of the Stars, but they’ve got the poise and polish to control the tempo and close out games.
Team World: International Talent on Full Display
Led by Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic, Team World is a blend of MVPs, rising stars, and skilled bigs - and they’re not just here to participate.
- Nikola Jokic (Nuggets), two-time MVP and the league’s most unguardable center, anchors the middle.
- Luka Doncic (Lakers), now in purple and gold, brings his signature flair and vision.
- Victor Wembanyama (Spurs) continues to defy basketball physics.
- Pascal Siakam (Pacers), Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks), and Deni Avdija (Blazers) give this team size and versatility.
- Alperen Şengün (Rockets) steps in as an injury replacement for Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks).
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder) is also out, but Norman Powell (Heat) fills in with his veteran scoring punch.
This group has the size, skill, and chemistry to make a serious run. Don’t let the injuries fool you - Team World is still stacked.
Game Schedule (All Times ET)
- **5:00 p.m. ** - Team World vs.
Team USA Stars
- **5:55 p.m.
** - Winner of Game 1 vs. Team USA Stripes
- **6:25 p.m. ** - Loser of Game 1 vs.
Team USA Stripes
- **7:10 p.m.
** - All-Star Championship Game
With each game only 12 minutes long, expect intensity from the jump. There’s no time to ease into a rhythm - it’s go time from the opening tip.
Streaming and Viewing Options
If you're not tuning in on NBC, there are several ways to catch the action:
- DIRECTV is offering a free trial and $40 off your first month.
- Peacock is streaming the event live and offering monthly and annual plans.
- Sling TV has a range of flexible options - from a $4.99 Day Pass to a $199.99 Season Pass - and is offering half off the first month for new users.
No cable? No problem. Whether you’re watching on your phone, tablet, or smart TV, there’s a way to catch every alley-oop and buzzer-beater.
The Bottom Line
The 2026 NBA All-Star Games aren’t just a showcase - they’re a celebration of the game’s global reach and generational talent. From LeBron’s return to Wembanyama’s rising stardom, to the youth movement led by Edwards and Maxey, there’s no shortage of storylines.
And with a fast-paced, round-robin format, the action promises to be as unpredictable as it is entertaining.
So whether you’re tuning in for the legends, the future stars, or just the love of the game - grab your favorite jersey, settle in, and enjoy what could be one of the most exciting All-Star nights in recent memory.