2026 NBA All-Star Game Starters Announced: Live Updates and Analysis

The NBA has officially announced the starters for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, set to take place in Los Angeles next month. Fans worldwide participated in the voting process, which accounted for 50% of the decision, while players and select media shared the remaining 50%. This significant event marks the beginning of a new format for the All-Star Game.

2026 NBA All-Star Game Starters Announced

The unveiling of the starters occurred on Monday during a live broadcast on NBC. The announcement was made right before the tip-off of an NBA game between Oklahoma City and Cleveland. The starters include five players from the Eastern Conference and five from the Western Conference.

Eastern Conference Starters

• Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks: The forward leads the East with averages of 28.8 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists over 27 games.
• Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks: The clutch player is averaging 28.2 points and 6.1 assists this season.
• Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons: Cunningham has recorded 25.9 points and a career-high 9.6 assists per game.
• Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers: Maxey’s stats include 30.3 points and 6.7 assists per game, securing him a second All-Star appearance.
• Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics: Brown is averaging career-highs of 29.7 points and 4.8 assists.

Western Conference Starters

• Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets: The reigning MVP is posting 29.6 points and 11 assists per game.
• Luka Dončić, Los Angeles Lakers: Dončić leads the league with an average of 33.3 points per game.
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder: Currently averaging 31.8 points and recognized as a top MVP contender.
• Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors: At 37, Curry averages 27.6 points and will make his 12th All-Star appearance.
• Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs: Wembanyama has garnered attention with averages of 24.5 points and 10.9 rebounds.

New All-Star Game Format

This year introduces an innovative format featuring the USA vs. World teams. The 24 selected players will be split into two USA teams and one World team. The All-Star Game will consist of a round-robin tournament format, featuring multiple 12-minute games. Teams will be determined based on fan votes, alongside selections made by coaches for reserves.

All-Star Weekend Schedule

The All-Star festivities will culminate on February 15, earlier than in previous years. Broadcasting will be available through NBC and streaming on Peacock. This All-Star Game marks a new era for the league, aligning with its push towards a more international representation.