NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is actively seeking ways to modernize the league by introducing new events and tournaments aimed at increasing interest. Following a dip in ratings, Silver implemented changes to the regular season and All-Star Weekend format for the 2024-25 season. However, the second year of the Emirates NBA Cup was not as successful as hoped, and the updated All-Star Weekend format also underwhelmed.

The All-Star Weekend has been declining in popularity for years, with players appearing to lack the motivation to compete seriously. This year’s All-Star Game, for instance, featured players casually running up and down the court, avoiding intense play to prevent injuries.

Looking ahead to the 2026 All-Star Weekend at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, Silver has indicated discussions with the players’ association about potentially transforming the All-Star Game into an international competition. According to Joe Vardon of The Athletic, Silver and president of league operations Byron Spruell are in talks with NBC, the new broadcast partner, to explore an "international competition" format for the All-Star Game scheduled for February 15, 2026.

Silver stated, "Our All-Star Game will return to NBC next season in the middle of their coverage of the Winter Olympics. Given the strong interest we’ve seen in international basketball competitions, most recently in last summer’s Olympics in Paris, we’re discussing concepts with the players’ association that focus on NBA players representing their countries or regions instead of the more traditional formats that we’ve used in the past."

While the concept of an international competition is intriguing and could potentially boost the NBA’s global presence, further alterations to the All-Star Game might be perceived as a desperate attempt to revitalize the event. The game has largely lost its appeal to fans due to its lack of competitive intensity. Silver’s proposed idea, however, introduces a novel element that could change the dynamic.

Players such as Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic would likely play a central role in such a format, and it remains to be seen whether Silver’s vision will come to fruition.

In a related note, Adam Silver has suggested that the trade of Luka Doncic to the Lakers may have inadvertently contributed to increased league ratings. Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!