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NBA Scraps All-Star Mini-Tournament, Eyes New Format for 2026

Commissioner Adam Silver calls 2025 format a failure as league explores alternatives, including a potential U.S. vs. International competition.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver speaks to media at a press conference during 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend at Chase Center on February 15, 2025 in San Francisco, California.
Feb 16, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; A general view of a performance during the 2025 NBA All Star Game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • The NBA will not bring back the 2025 All-Star Game's mini-tournament format, which was widely criticized for lack of competitiveness and poor execution.
  • Commissioner Adam Silver admitted the format, featuring a four-team tournament, was unsuccessful and failed to engage players and fans.
  • The 2025 All-Star Game drew 4.7 million viewers, marking the second-lowest ratings in the game's history, further highlighting the need for change.
  • For 2026, the NBA is considering new ideas, including a U.S. vs. International format, though no final decision has been made.
  • The 2026 All-Star Game will air on NBC for the first time in 23 years, coinciding with the network's coverage of the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.