Giannis-Backed USA vs International NBA All-Star Format

Merlin sees the league reshaping its midseason pageant: the 2026 NBA All-Star Game will feature two U.S. teams and one international team in a round-robin of four 12-minute games on Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome. The 24 All-Stars are still picked the usual way (starters by fan/player/media votes, reserves by coaches), but Adam Silver will add players if a three-team lineup needs extra bodies — and American players with foreign ties could suit up for the international squad. This matters because it turns an exhibition into a true short tournament, changing strategy and spotlighting global stars. Merlin notes the appeal — a grouping like “Antetokounmpo, Jokić, Dončić, Gilgeous-Alexander and Wembanyama” “would be nearly impossible to stop,” and the NHL’s 4 Nations success shows the format can spark real drama. Expect higher competition, new storylines, and a test of whether fans prefer country pride over conference bragging.