John Tesh will perform his famous Roundball Rock theme live at the NBA All-Star Game this Sunday, marking its first time being played in a sports arena. This moment commemorates NBC’s return to NBA coverage after a 24-year break, as part of their new broadcasting partnership with the league.
The theme song became synonymous with basketball for millions during NBC’s original NBA telecasts from 1990 to 2002. Now, at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, Tesh’s performance will evoke fond memories and celebrate the network’s renewed 11-year agreement to air NBA games.
Star-Studded Music Highlights NBA Weekend
Beyond Tesh’s memorable act, the All-Star weekend features a lineup full of renowned artists. Grammy winner Ludacris is set to headline Saturday’s events before the slam dunk contest, while fellow Grammy recipients Brandy and Sarah McLachlan will perform the national anthems for the U.S. and Canada ahead of the Sunday game.
The weekend’s entertainment also includes Friday performances by The Voice champion Aiden Ross and K-pop group CORTIS during the celebrity game, adding diverse musical energy to the basketball festivities.
Balancing Nostalgia With a Fresh Broadcast Era
The Roundball Rock theme is more than music for many fans who grew up in the 1990s—it’s linked to iconic moments like Michael Jordan’s championship runs. Its reappearance symbolizes NBC’s respect for basketball’s celebrated past while embracing a modern broadcasting chapter.
The NBA All-Star Game will air at 5 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock, reaching audiences across more than 200 countries and territories. John Tesh’s live rendition promises to unite generations of basketball followers, combining cherished nostalgia with the excitement of today’s NBA showcase.
