Karl-Anthony Towns, center for the New York Knicks, is anticipated to represent the World team in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, according to NBA insider Shams Charania. This selection follows a detailed league review of player nationalities amid the NBA’s introduction of a new U.S. versus World format for the event.
Shift from Eastern Conference to International Team
Initially chosen as a reserve for the Eastern Conference, Towns’ long-standing international career representing the Dominican Republic has placed him on Team World. This adjustment mirrors a similar change involving Miami Heat guard Norman Powell, who is also being considered for the World team due to his Jamaican heritage and experience in FIBA competition.
“It’s expected Knicks’ Karl-Anthony Towns will play for the World team in the 2026 NBA All-Star game.” ?Shams Charania, NBA Insider
Towns’ Impact on Knicks and The New All-Star Format
Towns has played a key role in the Knicks’ successful 2025-26 season, contributing to their 32-18 record and securing second place in the Eastern Conference standings. The upcoming 75th NBA All-Star Game will debut an innovative structure featuring three teams in a round-robin tournament: two U.S. squads and one World team. Each team is set to include at least eight players, making final nationality decisions like those for Towns and Powell crucial to roster composition.
Overview of the 2026 All-Star Event Setting and Format
The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is scheduled for February 15 at the Inuit Dome in Inglewood, California. This venue will host the league’s first-ever U.S. versus World format, bringing a fresh competitive edge to the All-Star festivities and highlighting global basketball talent, including stars like Karl-Anthony Towns.
It's expected Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns will play for the World team in the 2026 NBA All-Star game. https://t.co/GPI85lqMyU
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 3, 2026
