NBA’s Next All-Star Twist? Bring On 1-on-1's For The Masses: Report

Last Updated:February 19, 2026, 16:06 IST

The NBA are considering a 1-on-1 tournament for the following years' All-Star Game, with superstars such as Giannis, Harden, Kyrie, and Anthony Edwards showing interest.

The NBA’s revamped All-Star Game format delivered, at least on paper.

Around 8.8 million viewers tuned in this weekend, per NBC, making it the most-watched All-Star Game since 2011. Not a record, but a clear step forward.

Now the league wants more.

According to Front Office Sports, NBC is already exploring ways to elevate Saturday night’s slate, which once again felt flat, particularly during the Slam Dunk Contest.

Ideas being floated? A fourth marquee event, potentially a 1-on-1 or 2-on-2 tournament.

“On the NBC side, we’re thinking if there’s another element that could be added that would make Saturday even more of a showcase for the players," NBC Sports executive Rick Cordella told FOS.

Why 1-on-1 Just Hits Different

A 1-on-1 tournament isn’t just another gimmick. It’s raw basketball.

You’re on an island, by yourself. No screens. No help defense. No excuses. Just you, your skill, your size, your bag.

The best players in the world going head-to-head in the purest form of competition? That’s exactly the kind of edge All-Star weekend has been missing.

And here’s the kicker: the stars are already in.

The Blueprint Is Already There

The women’s Unrivaled league found success with a 1-on-1 tournament format, even offering a grand prize larger than some players’ annual WNBA salaries.

The NBA may not match those incentives dollar-for-dollar. But with superstar buy-in and renewed ratings momentum, a 1-on-1 showdown might be exactly the adrenaline shot All-Star Weekend needs.

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