NBA Opens 2026 All-Star Voting with New Format

NBA All-Star voting opened this week, giving fans, players and media a role in selecting starters for the 2026 game, which will feature a novel USA versus international format aimed at boosting competitiveness. The ballots, available daily through mid-January, combine 50 percent fan votes, 25 percent from players and 25 percent from media to determine conference starters, with coaches picking reserves. This marks the first time position requirements have been eliminated, potentially reshaping rosters and emphasizing global talent.

The league's push for change comes amid criticism that recent All-Star Games have lacked intensity, with players often opting for highlight-reel shots and dunks over defensive effort. Kevin Durant, now with the Phoenix Suns, recently expressed skepticism about the new setup during an appearance on the Unguarded Podcast. He blamed players like Stephen Curry and Damian Lillard for setting a casual tone with half-court threes in past exhibitions, though he acknowledged dunks and alley-oops contribute equally to the spectacle. Durant has previously stated he dislikes the international divide, arguing it could complicate selections and further dilute the...