The NBA’s brightest young stars are set to take center stage in Los Angeles, as the league has officially announced the rosters for the 2026 Castrol Rising Stars Challenge. The annual showcase - slated for Friday, Feb. 13 at the Intuit Dome - brings together the top first- and second-year players in the NBA, along with a select group of standouts from the NBA G League. And as always, it’s more than just an exhibition - it’s a glimpse into the league’s future.
Rookies Ready to Shine
This year’s rookie class is stacked with talent, and the Rising Stars roster reflects that. Headlining the group is Cooper Flagg (Dallas), the highly touted forward whose two-way impact has already made waves early in his NBA journey. He’ll be joined by fellow top picks like Dylan Harper (San Antonio), Tre Johnson (Washington), and Derik Queen (New Orleans), all of whom have shown flashes of star potential in their debut seasons.
Keep an eye on VJ Edgecombe (Philadelphia) and Cedric Coward (Memphis), who’ve each carved out meaningful roles on competitive teams. Egor Dëmin (Brooklyn) brings international flair and versatility, while Jeremiah Fears (New Orleans) and Kon Knueppel (Charlotte) round out a deep rookie group that’s already proving the 2025 draft class was no fluke. Collin Murray-Boyles (Toronto) also makes the cut, bringing size, mobility, and an emerging offensive game.
Sophomores Taking the Next Step
The sophomore class is equally loaded, with several players making real strides in Year 2. Matas Buzelis (Chicago) has taken on a bigger role and is delivering on both ends.
Stephon Castle (San Antonio) continues to be a defensive disruptor with growing confidence as a playmaker. Donovan Clingan (Portland) anchors the paint with a mix of size and savvy that’s rare for someone his age.
Reed Sheppard (Houston) remains one of the most efficient young guards in the league, while Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George (both Washington) are helping to turn the Wizards into one of the more intriguing young teams in the East. Ajay Mitchell (Oklahoma City), Cam Spencer (Memphis), Jaylon Tyson (Cleveland), Kel’el Ware (Miami), and Jaylen Wells (Memphis) round out a group that’s already showing they’re more than just promising prospects - they’re contributors.
G League Talent Gets Its Spotlight
The Rising Stars Challenge isn’t just about NBA rookies and sophomores - it’s also a platform for the NBA G League’s top talent. Seven players from the G League will form a team of their own, giving fans a chance to see the next wave of talent before they hit the big stage.
Among them is Sean East II (Salt Lake City), a dynamic guard with a knack for scoring in bunches. Yang Hansen (Rip City Remix) and Yanic Konan Niederhäser (Santa Cruz) bring size and international experience, while **Ron Harper Jr.
** (Maine) and David Jones Garcia (Austin) add versatility and toughness. Alijah Martin (Raptors 905) and Tristen Newton (Rio Grande Valley) round out a group that’s hungry to prove they belong.
A New Format, Familiar Legends
The format remains a mini-tournament with four teams - three composed of NBA players and one made up of G League talent. The 21 NBA players will be drafted onto three seven-player squads on Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. ET, while the G League players will stick together as the fourth team.
Adding some star power to the sidelines, Carmelo Anthony, Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, and Austin Rivers will serve as honorary coaches. Rivers will take the reins of the G League squad, bringing his own NBA experience into the fold as he guides the league’s rising talent.
How to Watch
The 2026 Castrol Rising Stars Challenge tips off Friday, Feb. 13 at 9 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on Peacock. Fans can also stream the event through the NBA App and NBA.com.
Whether you're tuning in to see the next breakout star or just want a preview of the league’s future, the Rising Stars Challenge has become must-watch TV. With this mix of raw talent, growing stars, and G League grinders, expect fireworks in L.A.