NBA All-Star’s Revival: One-on-One Tournament Holds the Key

Emerson Raymont

Published: February 14, 2026 8:42 AM ET

Recent performances by NBA stars Victor Wembanyama and Anthony Edwards have ignited discussions among fans about the potential for a one-on-one tournament within the league. Edwards scored 55 points in a close matchup against Wembanyama, who finished with 39 points in a win. After the game, Edwards expressed a desire to battle Wembanyama directly, highlighting the excitement such a format could generate.

NBA All-Star’s Revival: One-on-One Tournament Holds the Key

NBA fans are yearning for a revitalized All-Star event, one that could be answered by a one-on-one tournament. This concept aims to showcase the league’s top talent in a more competitive setting, allowing players to battle for pride and transcend the boundaries of regular gameplay.

Format and Rules

The proposed one-on-one tournament would consist of 25 players. Competitors will be seeded and face off in a format where the first player to reach 11 points wins, adhering to the following rules:

Games played by 1s and 2s; win by two.
The higher seed starts with possession.
Make-it-take-it format: scoring player retains the ball.
After a miss, the defensive player must rebound and retreat behind the 3-point line before scoring.
No offensive rebounds allowed; no putbacks.
Fouls reset possessions at the top of the key; six fouls result in disqualification.

Player Matchups and Predictions

The tournament’s initial matchups are intriguing, showcasing contrasting styles and skill sets:

Tyrese Maxey vs. Karl-Anthony Towns: Towns’ size likely prevails over Maxey’s speed.
Jalen Brunson vs. Pascal Siakam: Brunson’s jab step sequence gives him the edge.
Stephen Curry vs. Norman Powell: Curry’s shooting range outmatches Powell’s defense.
Giannis Antetokounmpo vs. Deni Avdija: Giannis’ drive-and-finish ability is key.
Nikola Jokic vs. Jalen Johnson: Jokic’s adaptability in a one-on-one setting stands out.
Chet Holmgren vs. Devin Booker: Booker’s experience provides the advantage.
Victor Wembanyama vs. Scottie Barnes: Wembanyama’s shooting touch gives him the win.
Kevin Durant vs. Jaylen Brown: Durant’s length and scoring versatility prevail.

These matches delineate the tournament’s potential excitement, contrasting the players’ various offensive strategies and defensive capabilities. The early predictions lean towards established stars leveraging their unique skills against upcoming talents.

Looking Ahead

The results of this hypothetical tournament could reshape how fans view player dynamics within the league. Given the NBA’s evolution towards a more competitive spirit in exhibitions, the idea of a one-on-one tournament might be an innovative solution. While the future remains uncertain regarding its implementation, the excitement sparked by players like Wembanyama and Edwards demonstrates the fans’ hunger for such thrilling matchups.

If the NBA proceeds with this concept, a one-on-one tournament could become a centerpiece of future All-Star festivities, bringing a fresh and entertaining twist to basketball culture.