The NBA announced a major change to its All-Star selection process, making it positionless for both starters and reserves. Players will now be chosen regardless of traditional guard, forward, or center designations.
The new system aims to reflect modern basketball’s positionless style of play, where versatility and adaptability are increasingly valued. Officials said this change allows the best players to be recognized without being limited by positional categories.
Under the updated format, fan, player, and media votes will continue to determine starters, while coaches select reserves, but position constraints will no longer apply. The league believes this will create more competitive and balanced All-Star lineups.
Analysts note that positionless selection could lead to lineups featuring multiple guards or forwards, emphasizing skill sets rather than traditional roles. This mirrors trends seen in regular-season NBA play, where flexibility and switching have become central strategies.
The move also aligns with the NBA’s efforts to innovate All-Star Weekend, including the new 2026 game format of two U.S. teams versus one World team in a round-robin setup. Fans can expect faster-paced, dynamic matchups.
Players have responded positively, welcoming the opportunity for the most talented athletes to participate regardless of position. Coaches are preparing to adapt strategies for assembling competitive rosters under the new system.
The NBA’s positionless All-Star selection reflects broader trends in basketball, where versatile skill sets, spacing, and adaptability are redefining how teams approach the game. Officials say the change highlights the league’s commitment to innovation and fan engagement.
This update also provides a platform for international stars, allowing their selection based solely on performance rather than position, further supporting the NBA’s global growth and appeal.
Fans can expect the first positionless All-Star team to be named for the 2026 All-Star Game, setting a precedent for future selections and shaping the evolution of the showcase event.
