The format of the NBA All-Star Game is set to change for the upcoming season, though one aspect remains constant: the ongoing debate over player selections. Last Thursday, the 2025 starters were announced, while the 14 reserves were revealed during TNT's NBA Tip-Off broadcast. This year’s All-Star Game will take place at Chase Center in San Francisco on February 16, featuring an exciting line-up of superstar players.

Recent iterations of the All-Star Game have seen several transformations, including the introduction of team captains who draft their rosters shortly before tip-off. This season, the event will revert to a traditional Eastern Conference versus Western Conference matchup, but with a notable twist. The game will be formatted as a tournament involving four teams, each comprising eight players. Three of these teams will consist of the 24 selected All-Stars, while the fourth team will be established from the winner of the Rising Stars event occurring on February 14.

The structure of the event will include two semifinal games, with the winners advancing to compete for the title. Broadcasters Charles Barkley, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kenny Smith are set to act as honorary general managers, drafting their teams on February 6. This new format aims to foster a more competitive atmosphere and engage fans with a fresh take on the All-Star festivities.