The NBA’s 2026 All-Star Game will air in a daytime slot on Sunday afternoon and be broadcast on NBC, ending its long-standing run on TNT.
The league announced the move as part of broader All-Star Weekend changes, including a new game format featuring two U.S. teams versus one World team in a round-robin of four 12-minute games.
Officials said the shift to NBC aims to reach a wider audience, leveraging the network’s national platform and expanding exposure for the league’s marquee event. The daytime schedule is expected to make the game more accessible to families and younger viewers.
The move also reflects the NBA’s focus on innovation and fan engagement, coinciding with the positionless All-Star selection system and international player emphasis. Fans can expect dynamic gameplay and increased visibility for global stars.
NBC will complement the broadcast with pregame and halftime programming, highlighting player profiles, community stories, and league initiatives. Analysts say this change could increase viewership ratings compared with evening broadcasts.
The end of TNT’s tenure marks the conclusion of a decade-long partnership, during which the network delivered memorable All-Star moments and coverage. The NBA expressed appreciation for TNT’s contributions while looking forward to the new broadcast era.
The Sunday afternoon timing also aligns with a broader strategy to enhance accessibility and attract casual fans, making it easier to watch across time zones without late-night scheduling conflicts.
The 2026 All-Star Game on NBC represents a fresh chapter for the league’s showcase event, integrating format innovation, international talent recognition, and expanded broadcast reach to maximize fan experience.
