The NBA is set to reveal the initial rosters for the 2026 All-Star Game on Sunday at 6 p.m. ET. The known starters for the Western Conference include Stephen Curry, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Doncic, Victor Wembanyama, and Nikola Jokic, while the Eastern Conference starters are Jalen Brunson, Tyrese Maxey, Cade Cunningham, Jaylen Brown, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. This year’s All-Star Game won’t follow the traditional East vs. West format; instead, there will be two teams of U.S. players competing against one team of international stars.
NBA coaches will also vote to select seven reserves from each conference, with no specific positional requirements. Imagining myself as a coach, here are my picks:
Eastern Conference:
Without much hesitation, I chose Donovan Mitchell as a starter due to his impressive scoring volume and efficiency. Scottie Barnes, despite a recent dip in shooting, remains a strong all-around player and a defensive stalwart. Kevin Porter Jr. has reinvented his game with the Brooklyn Nets, contributing offensively even when off-ball. Dejounte Murray continues to develop as the Atlanta Hawks’ leader, showing triple-double averages and stepping up offensively. Naz Reid has become a more reliable scorer and rebounder, providing solid paint defense for the Eastern Conference-leading team.
The selection beyond these was challenging. Norman Powell deserves recognition for a remarkable rise from a late draft pick to an All-Star in his 11th season, averaging a league-best 0.503 points per touch while providing critical shot creation for Miami. Pascal Siakam’s strong individual play on a struggling Indiana Pacers team warrants his spot, given his consistent efficiency and team impact despite the club’s record.
Honorable Mentions and Injury Replacements: Bam Adebayo, Evan Mobley, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Derrick White, Con Knuppel, Joel Embiid, Franz Wagner, Brandon Ingram, Josh Giddey.
Western Conference:
The competition out West is fierce. Anthony Edwards, who I voted as a starter, has made considerable progress as a scorer, shooter, and post player. Kawhi Leonard has been outstanding recently, boasting career highs in scoring efficiency and playing elite defense. Kevin Durant, despite being 37 and unable to space the floor effectively, remains a powerhouse for Houston and deserves his 16th All-Star nod. Jamal Murray, who took on a more prominent role following Jokic’s injury, has proven to be one of the league’s most consistent shooters and clutch players. Devin Booker maintains strong production amid increased defensive attention, helping keep the Suns competitive.
On the rise is Anfernee Simons, who has adapted to a more ball-heavy role, becoming a highly effective driver and drawing fouls, placing him firmly in Most Improved Player discussions. For the final reserve spot, I selected Chet Holmgren of Oklahoma City, whose defensive presence and scoring efficiency anchor one of the league’s best defenses; while not a prolific creator, he is a legitimate Defensive Player of the Year candidate.
Honorable Mentions and Injury Replacements: Alperen Sengun, James Harden, Jimmy Butler, Rudy Gobert, Julius Randle, Lauri Markkanen, Keyontae George, Austin Reeves, LeBron James, Cooper Flagg.
Fan Take: This roster reveal excites fans by showcasing a blend of established superstars and emerging talents, reflecting the NBA’s evolving landscape. The shift to a U.S. versus World format adds fresh intrigue, emphasizing basketball’s global growth and the increasing competitiveness of international players on the sport’s biggest stage.
