Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2026 NBA All-Star Game on Sunday, leading the USA Stars to a victory over the USA Stripes in a contest that showcased a newly implemented tournament-style format.
The game, played in Los Angeles, marked the debut of a revamped All-Star format designed to increase competition and engagement. The USA Stars defeated the USA Stripes in the championship game, capping a weekend of basketball that drew significant viewership. Preliminary Nielsen data and digital analytics from Adobe Analytics indicate the 2026 All-Star Game peaked at nearly 10 million viewers and averaged 8.8 million across NBC, Peacock, and Telemundo – the largest audience for the event since 2011.
The new format appears to have resonated with fans, with early returns showing an 87 percent increase in viewership compared to the 2025 All-Star Game, which drew 4.7 million viewers. Viewership peaked between 7:00 PM and 7:15 PM ET as the USA Stripes attempted a late comeback against the Stars.
Edwards’ performance was a key factor in the Stars’ win, earning him the Kobe Bryant Trophy as MVP. Alongside Edwards, Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs emerged as a standout performer for the World team, scoring 33 points and contributing eight rebounds and two blocked shots. Wembanyama’s performance highlighted the growing international presence and talent within the NBA.
The All-Star Game’s success comes as the NBA continues to explore ways to enhance the fan experience and elevate the profile of its players. The league has faced ongoing discussions regarding player participation and the competitive intensity of the All-Star Game in recent years, prompting the shift to a more structured, tournament-based approach.
ESPN reported that the new format was widely considered a success, raising the level of competition and providing a more engaging spectacle for viewers. The weekend also featured a revitalized dunk contest, signaling a potential turning point for the traditionally popular event.
