NBA All-Star 2026: How Will Team USA and Team World Line Up? Here’s Who Might Make the Cut

Akash Vaishnav

Last updated: June 5, 2025 - 3 min read

A major shift is coming to the All-Star Game, but who makes the cut for each side?

Image Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

The NBA All-Star Game is poised for a dramatic overhaul next season, as the league prepares to adopt a bold new format. The development was confirmed by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver who suggested that a USA vs. World format will be adopted. This comes after a horrendous All-star show this season.

Fans have demanded on social media platforms for a change in the format. And after massive drop in viewership, the NBA has finally heard their cries. The USA vs. World format could involve multiple competitions between the two sides including a full game.

The 2026 NBA All-Star Game will be the top United States players against the best players from around the globe 👀 pic.twitter.com/D5TLCgaWZB
— Complex Sports (@ComplexSports) June 4, 2025

Let’s explore how both the sides could lineup if a full match was set.

NBA All-Star Team USA

PG – Steph Curry

SG – Anthony Edwards

SF – Jayson Tatum

PF – LeBron James

C – Anthony Edwards

The NBA All-Star Team USA is likely to produce a similar starting 5 above, given all the leading talents are available to play next February. Steph Curry, widely regarded as the greatest shooter in NBA history, is the obvious starter at point guard.

He was the leader of the pack at the Summer Olympics and was a key figure in bailing out USA at multiple instances especially in the final which got his country the gold medal. Anthony Edwards has emerged as one of the league’s top scorers, finishing the season with the most made three-pointers.

His athleticism will push his name in the All-Star USA team. Jayson Tatum’s availability remains uncertain due to a lingering long-term injury, though updates are promising. If everything goes right, he could be ready by the All Star weekend.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis are expected to reunite, bringing elite experience and dominance at forward and center. The Team USA is likely to see no major changes in terms of their starting lineup from the recent Summer Olympics.

NBA All-Star Team World

PG – Luka Doncic

SG – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

SF – Giannis Antetokounmpo

PF – Nikola Jokic

C – Victor Wembanyama

The Team World looks more dangerous on paper, featuring a core of young stars entering their prime. Unlike, Team USA which is filled with legends. Luka Doncic would undoubtedly start at the point guard position making the plays for his team. While MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who remains the best in the shooting guard position would take the responsibility there.

While playing for the OKC Thunder this season, he has posted an average of 32.7 points, 5.0 rebounds and 6.4 assists. Giannis Antetokounmpo who was also in the conversation of MVP award, will start at his preferred small forward position.

Nikola Jokic is likely to lead the side given his leadership skills on and off the court. With his inclusion, the offense becomes almost unbeatable. He and Victor Wembanyama would cause serious problems for Team USA inside the paint, combining size with agility.

NBA All-Star

Akash Vaishnav

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I cover NBA at the Playoffs. I specialize in covering breaking news, Previews, in in-depth analysis (breaking down numbers, complex stats, nuances of the game, and converting them into reader-friendly content). Furthermore, I got into the sports media while looking for an entry into the media industry. I love International Relations, and since entry without majoring in the subject was difficult, I got into sports. Now, while majoring in International Relations on one side, I also like covering sports as part of the journey as a young Journalist.