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NBA Moves Toward USAWorld, Three-Team Round Robin for 2026 All-Star Game

A proposed three-team USA-versus-World round robin drew support from the NBA Competition Committee.

Overview

  • The NBA and players' union presented the concept this week, and governors, team executives and players reacted positively, according to multiple reports.
  • Under the reported plan, 24 All-Stars would be split into two U.S. teams and one World team of eight players each for round-robin games with 12-minute quarters.
  • The 2026 showcase is slated for Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles and would air on NBC in a Sunday afternoon slot.
  • The shift follows widespread criticism of the 2025 four-team mini-tournament and a ratings drop that Commissioner Adam Silver labeled a miss.
  • The structure mirrors league demographics of roughly 70% American players and could open more All-Star spots for international stars, with final approvals and selection mechanics still to be decided.