Shooting Stars Returns to All-Star Saturday with Knicks, All-Star Pairings and Legends
The Shooting Stars competition is back on All-Star Saturday night (ET) for the first time since 2015, bringing a nostalgia-tinged skills shootout to the weekend. Four teams of two current players and one retired star will compete across seven shooting locations, with the top two advancing to a championship round.
What the revived Shooting Stars looks like
The format revives the original setup: three teammates attempt a sequence of shots from around the court that vary in difficulty and point value. Each squad has two active players and one veteran, and the goal is to accumulate the highest score in an opening round to reach the final. The return restores a lighthearted, team-based element to the evening that contrasts with solo contests such as the 3-point shootout and Slam Dunk Contest.
Teams and notable lineups to watch
Four squads will step onto the court. One entry pairs two current All-Stars with a franchise legend: Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns will team with former All-Star Allan Houston. Another group labeled Team All-Star features Scottie Barnes alongside Chet Holmgren and retired standout Richard Hamilton. Team Cameron and Team Harper round out the field, each blending young players with veteran presence and family ties in one case. Expect a mix of long-range shooting, catch-and-shoot looks and some theatrics as the legends provide steady hands and memorable moments.
How the competition will play out
The opening round will eliminate two teams, leaving the top two to duel in a timed championship run. Shots originate from seven spots with escalating difficulty; teams must balance quick makes with higher-point attempts. Speed matters, but consistency from midrange and beyond will likely decide the outcome. The revived event keeps the pace brisk and rewards chemistry between teammates who may not normally share a floor.
Context inside All-Star Weekend
The Shooting Stars return complements the night’s other attractions — including the Slam Dunk Contest and the 3-point event — and offers players who aren’t otherwise competing a chance to shine in front of the All-Star crowd. The contest also provides retired players a spotlight on the modern All-Star stage, bridging eras and giving fans a bit of variety between highlight-heavy competitions.
What to watch and key storylines
Keep an eye on the Knicks-branded trio’s chemistry; two active All-Stars paired with a franchise icon creates both expectation and narrative intrigue. Another storyline is the presence of family ties and college connections on other teams, which could produce unique on-court coordination. Finally, the legends’ ability to hit timely shots under a ticking clock could determine whether their squads advance. With the top two moving on, the margin for error is small — making each make and miss carry extra weight.
Return of the Shooting Stars is as much about spectacle as competition: it revives a piece of All-Star Weekend history while offering fresh matchups and fast-paced, team-oriented fun on Saturday night (ET) at the Intuit Dome.
