**NBA Introduces USA vs. the World Format for 2026 All-Star Game at Intuit Dome**

The NBA's All-Star Game is set for another transformation. Commissioner Adam Silver announced on FS1’s “Breakfast Ball” that the 2026 All-Star Game, to be hosted at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, will premiere a new format featuring a showdown between Team USA and the World. This change follows the NHL’s successful introduction of the Four Nations Face-Off, which drew impressive viewership numbers, with the first game between the United States and Canada attracting over 10 million viewers and the finale drawing 9.3 million on ESPN.

Silver acknowledged that the NBA’s modified 2025 format, which was a tournament, did not meet expectations, referring to it as “a miss.” In designing the 2026 game, he took inspiration from the NHL's success. “What better time to feature some form of USA against the World? I'm not exactly sure what the format will be yet,” Silver said, highlighting his attention to the NHL's model.

The 2026 NBA All-Star Game, scheduled for February 16, will coincide with the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics in Italy, which runs from February 6 to February 22. NBC, returning as the NBA’s broadcast partner, will air both the All-Star Game and Olympic events. This scheduling means that the All-Star Game will be showcased in the afternoon to create a seamless transition between NBA action and Olympic coverage.

"On the very day of the game, the lead-in will be Winter Olympic events," Silver explained. "Coming out of the All-Star Game, more Olympic events will follow.” The timing and coordination with the Olympics are expected to boost viewership and provide a unique viewing experience.

The new format will spotlight the best American players against top international talents. Fans could see stars like Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, and Jayson Tatum taking on global icons such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Nikola Jokić, Luka Dončić, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

The 2026 All-Star Game promises to bring a dynamic and global flavor to the NBA’s midseason showcase, enhancing its appeal by drawing from the success of international sports events.