NBA All-Star Voting 2026: New USA vs. World Format Changes Everything

The NBA has officially launched voting for the 2026 All-Star Game. Fans can now cast their ballots daily to select the league’s top talent. The game will be held at the new Intuit Dome in Los Angeles next February. This season introduces a revolutionary format change that has captured the basketball world’s attention.

Gone is the traditional East vs. West matchup. In its place is a bold new USA vs. World competition. According to the NBA’s official announcement, this shift aims to showcase the game’s global growth. It promises fresh rivalries and a truly unique All-Star experience.

How to Cast Your Vote for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game

Voting for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game is now open. Fans can submit one ballot every day through the official NBA App or at NBA.com. The voting period runs from today until 11:59 p.m. ET on Tuesday, January 14, 2026.

This year’s process has been streamlined for fans. There are no positional requirements on the ballot. Voters simply select their favorite players from each conference. This gives fans more freedom to vote for the most exciting performers, regardless of position.

The NBA has also designated five special “3-for-1 Days.” On these dates, each submitted vote will count as three votes. These key dates are December 21 and 25 this year, plus December 30, and January 7 and 14 next year. Mark your calendars to maximize your voting impact.

Breaking Down the Historic New All-Star Format

The 2026 All-Star Game will feature a USA vs. World format. It represents the first major structural change to the game in over a decade. The NBA hopes this innovation will increase competitive intensity and fan engagement.

Under this system, 12 American players will be selected. They will be joined by 12 players from outside the United States. The teams will then compete in a round-robin style tournament during the All-Star Game itself. This guarantees multiple high-stakes matchups in one event.

The selection process still heavily involves fan input. Fan votes will account for 50% of the decision for the game’s starters. Current NBA players and a media panel will each account for the remaining 25%. Coaches will then select the reserves for each roster.

This format highlights the league’s incredible international talent. Stars like Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid could all feature on the World team. It creates a compelling new narrative for the mid-season classic.

The launch of 2026 NBA All-Star voting marks the start of a new era for the event. Your daily vote will directly shape the historic USA vs. World rosters. Make your voice heard and help select the stars for this groundbreaking game in Los Angeles.

Thought you’d like to know

When does 2026 NBA All-Star voting end?

Voting closes on Tuesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. The final day is also a “3-for-1 Day,” where votes count triple, so it’s a key date for last-minute campaigning.

How are the All-Star starters chosen?

Starters are selected through a weighted vote. Fan votes make up 50% of the total. Current NBA players contribute 25%, and a panel of media members accounts for the final 25%.

What is the new USA vs. World format?

Instead of Eastern vs. Western Conference, the 2026 game will pit a team of American-born players against a team of international stars. It’s a round-robin tournament featuring three total teams during the game.

Where is the 2026 NBA All-Star Game?

The game will be played at the new Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California. The arena is the future home of the LA Clippers. All-Star weekend is scheduled for February 13-15, 2026.

Can I vote more than once per day?

No. Each registered NBA ID is allowed to submit one complete ballot per day through the app or website. The “3-for-1 Days” do not allow extra ballots, but make your single vote more powerful.