NBA All-Star Weekend Delivers Record-Breaking Performances in San Francisco

The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend wrapped up in spectacular fashion at Chase Center in San Francisco, with fans witnessing some of the most memorable performances in the event's storied history. The three-day celebration of basketball excellence delivered on all fronts, from the Skills Challenge to the main event.

Friday night's Rising Stars Challenge set the tone for an unforgettable weekend. Team Detlef, led by rookie sensation Victor Martinez, overcame a 15-point deficit in the final quarter to defeat Team Isiah 145-142 in a thrilling overtime finish. Martinez, the Phoenix Suns guard who has taken the league by storm this season, finished with 28 points and 11 assists, earning MVP honors for the exhibition.

Saturday's Skills Challenge and Three-Point Contest provided their own memorable moments. Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry delighted the home crowd by claiming his third Three-Point Contest title, hitting 23 of 27 attempts in the final round to edge out Dame Lillard by a single point. The crowd erupted as Curry celebrated on his home court, adding another chapter to his legendary shooting prowess.

The Slam Dunk Contest returned to form with an old-school battle between athleticism and creativity. Miami Heat forward Derrick Thompson earned perfect 50s on consecutive dunks, including a windmill from the free-throw line that had the crowd on its feet. His final dunk, a 360-degree slam while blindfolded, secured his victory over defending champion Zion Williamson.

Sunday's All-Star Game itself lived up to the heightened expectations. Team LeBron edged Team Giannis 184-179 in a high-scoring affair that showcased the league's offensive evolution. Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum earned All-Star Game MVP honors with 42 points on 16-of-24 shooting, including eight three-pointers. The game featured 47 three-point attempts and a combined 363 points, the second-highest total in All-Star Game history.

Beyond the on-court action, the weekend celebrated basketball's global reach. International players comprised nearly 40% of the All-Star roster, highlighting the NBA's continued expansion worldwide. Commissioner Adam Silver used his state-of-the-league address to announce new initiatives aimed at growing the game in emerging markets, particularly in Africa and Asia.

The weekend concluded with the announcement that next year's All-Star Game will be held in Chicago, marking the Windy City's first time hosting since 1988. As fans filed out of Chase Center, the consensus was clear: the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend had restored the magic to basketball's premier showcase event.