The National Basketball Association (NBA) is exploring a new format for its annual All-Star Game, proposing a competition that pits the United States against the world. According to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, the league is considering this U.S. vs. world format for next season.
Background
Silver discussed this idea during an interview with Fox Sports 1, stating, "What better time than now?" when asked about transforming next year’s game into a USA versus World showdown. This concept is not entirely new; Silver previously mentioned it during his annual address to owners on March 27. However, it appears more imminent as planning begins for the upcoming season’s event.
Changes to Previous Formats
One format that will not be repeated is the mini-tournament featuring four teams competing over two days, which was used last February. This format lasted only one year after Silver announced changes via email, citing feedback received regarding future All-Star Game formats.
Upcoming All-Star Game Details
The 2026 All-Star Game is scheduled to take place on February 15 in Inglewood, California. It will occur just past the midpoint of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics and will start on Sunday afternoon instead of the traditional prime-time Sunday night slot due to NBC’s broadcast schedule.
NBC’s Broadcast Rights
- NBC has exclusive rights to air all Olympic events in primetime (7 PM – 11 PM ET).
- They can also show other events before or after these times without interference from other networks or streaming services.
- On Sundays, NBC can air games starting at noon ET during their designated window (12 PM – 5 PM).
- They may air sports programming between noon and 2 PM EST prior to regular-season NFL coverage, which begins at 2 PM EST.
- NBC cannot interfere with CBS’ AFC doubleheader broadcasts, which start immediately after the NFL Kickoff Show.
NBC’s exclusive rights extend until midnight ET every day except Saturday nights, when ABC airs college football games from September through January. During these hours, NBC may only use its affiliates for breaking news stories unless there are pre-existing commitments.
Conclusion
No further details have been confirmed regarding specific alternatives being discussed among owners and executives within the NBA Players Association (NBPA). Discussions continue among relevant parties involved, and any new implementations would require buy-in from these stakeholders.
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