The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend, set to take place from February 13 to 15 in Los Angeles, is poised to feature an exciting blend of basketball talent and musical performances. Highlighting the event will be Ludacris, along with other notable artists, delivering entertainment throughout the three-day celebration.
This annual showcase will include a series of basketball competitions—such as the Slam Dunk contest, the 3-Point contest, the Rising Stars game, and the Celebrity Game—paired with live performances occurring at different moments, including the national anthem, pregame, halftime, and fan experience events.
Leading Performer Announced for Slam Dunk Contest
As the main headliner, Ludacris, a three-time Grammy winner, will perform at the Intuit Dome before the Slam Dunk contest on Saturday, February 14, at 5 p.m. ET. His participation extends beyond this performance, as he will also entertain fans on Friday, February 13, during the NBA’s fan-focused event, NBA Crossover, at the Michelob ULTRA Courtside Concert. For those unable to attend in person, these performances will be broadcast on NBC and available to stream via Peacock.
Other Featured Musical Acts During the Weekend
The festivities begin on Thursday, February 12, with K-pop group CORTIS taking the stage as part of NBA Crossover Opening Night. This five-member ensemble will perform multiple times throughout the weekend, including the halftime show of the Celebrity Game on Friday evening.
Another headliner, Shaboozey, known for the track A Bar Song, will close the fan experience performances on Saturday, February 14, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. His entertainment will complement the basketball events and add to the weekend’s vibrant atmosphere.
Pregame and National Anthem Performers for the NBA All-Star Game
On Sunday, February 15, before the NBA All-Star Game tips off at 5 p.m. ET, composer and radio personality John Tesh will offer a unique live performance of his iconic 1995 song Roundball Rock, marking the piece’s first live rendition in a sports arena.
The national anthems will be presented by acclaimed singers Brandy and Sarah McLachlan. Brandy will perform the U.S. national anthem, while McLachlan will sing the Canadian anthem, representing her home country. These performances will air live on NBC and Peacock prior to the game.
Entertainment Surrounding the Rising Stars Game and NBA HBCU Classic
The Rising Stars game, featuring the top NBA rookies and sophomores, is scheduled for Friday, February 13, at 9 p.m. ET. Ahead of tip-off, The Voice season 28 winner, Aiden Ross, will perform the U.S. national anthem, followed by Canadian artist Chxrry singing the Canadian anthem.
In addition, the 2026 NBA HBCU Classic will take place on the same day at the Kia Forum, where Hampton University will face North Carolina A&T. Prior to the matchup, singer and actress Chlöe Bailey will perform the U.S. national anthem and the hymn Lift Every Voice and Sing. The game is set to begin at 11 p.m. ET.
Halftime Entertainment for the All-Star Celebrity Game
The All-Star Celebrity Game, which tips off on Friday, February 13, at 7 p.m. ET and will be televised on ESPN, will feature its first-ever halftime show. K-pop group CORTIS will perform during this break, adding a new entertainment dimension to the celebrity contest.
The Celebrity Game will also showcase a roster of well-known participants, including actors, musicians, and influencers such as Keegan-Michael Key, Mustard, Taylor Frankie Paul, Nicolas Vansteenberghe, and GloRilla. Leading the teams as coaches are NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo and his brothers Thanasis and Alex Antetokounmpo, joined by Mookie Betts, Lethal Shooter, Anthony Anderson, and Chris Brickley.
Combining top basketball talent with a diverse group of performers, the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend is set to deliver a multifaceted event that caters to both sports fans and music lovers. With the weekend’s packed schedule and star-studded lineup of NBA players and artists, the event will likely highlight new traditions in entertainment during the All-Star celebration.
