The 2026 NBA All-Star Game, scheduled for February 15, is facing last-minute changes as key players withdraw due to injuries. Among those affected is Giannis Antetokounmpo, who will not participate because of a calf strain sustained recently. This development alters the roster dynamics ahead of the weekend event, as Antetokounmpo was originally selected as a member of Team World in the league’s new round-robin format. As a result, the NBA has named San Antonio Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox as his official replacement.
De’Aaron Fox Named as Giannis’s Replacement in Team USA
Giannis Antetokounmpo has not appeared in any games this season since the injury, which has sidelined him while he recovers. The Greek superstar has compiled a strong performance across 30 games this season, averaging 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. His replacement, Fox, steps in amid his own impressive campaign with the Spurs, posting an average of 19.4 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.8 rebounds, while shooting 48.4% from the field, marking his best shooting percentage since the 2022-23 season.
Unlike Antetokounmpo, who was set to play for Team World, Fox will join the USA Stripes team, prompting adjustments to maintain balanced rosters. Notably, Miami Heat’s Norman Powell, who has Jamaican heritage, will switch from USA Stripes to Team World. Powell’s international ties also include his role representing Jamaica in the 2027 World Cup.
“Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox has been named by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to replace Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game (Sunday, Feb. 15 at 5 PM ET on NBC & Peacock). Fox joins USA Stripes. Heat guard Norman Powell, with ties to Jamaica, moves from…” — NBA Communications
Additional Injury Replacements Affecting All-Star Rosters
De’Aaron Fox is among several players stepping in for injured All-Stars this season. Alperen Şengün will replace Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, while Brandon Ingram takes the place of Stephen Curry. Meanwhile, Luka Dončić, also a Team World starter, is expected to miss the All-Star Game due to his ongoing absence from games, marking his fourth consecutive missed contest.
Fox’s Return to the All-Star Stage Reflects His Rising Role
Fox’s selection marks his second career All-Star appearance. His first came in 2023 during his tenure with the Sacramento Kings, where he averaged 25 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game. After requesting a trade due to dissatisfaction with Sacramento, Fox was acquired by the Spurs during the 2024-25 season and subsequently signed a four-year extension worth $223 million. His contract and performance confirm his importance as a cornerstone in San Antonio’s team-building efforts.
Fox won’t be the only Spurs representative at All-Star Weekend. Victor Wembanyama will compete for Team World, while youngsters Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle are slated for the Rising Stars event, and Carter Bryant will participate in the Slam Dunk contest.
What This Means for the Upcoming All-Star Competition
The absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo represents a significant loss for Team World and fans anticipating his dynamic presence. However, Fox’s inclusion on the USA Stripes roster adds fresh excitement as he has demonstrated his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. The NBA’s adoption of a round-robin tournament format this year reshapes the All-Star experience, placing increased emphasis on team balance and competitive play.
With multiple injury replacements altering team compositions, the 2026 NBA All-Star Game will test the depth and resilience of the league’s top talents. As fans await the event, broadcast on NBC and Peacock, the roster adjustments reflect ongoing challenges in managing player health while maintaining a high level of competition.
Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox has been named by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to replace Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game (Sunday, Feb. 15 at 5 PM ET on NBC & Peacock).
Fox joins USA Stripes. Heat guard Norman Powell, with ties to Jamaica, moves from… pic.twitter.com/yTiBdlWfbZ
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) February 12, 2026
Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox has been named by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to replace Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game (Sunday, Feb. 15 at 5 PM ET on NBC & Peacock).
Fox joins USA Stripes. Heat guard Norman Powell, with ties to Jamaica, moves from… pic.twitter.com/yTiBdlWfbZ
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) February 12, 2026
