Durant: Inquire with World team about their intentions for the All-Star Game participation
HOUSTON — Kevin Durant humorously remarked on Wednesday that he is part of an “old head” team with LeBron James, Stephen Curry (currently injured), and Kawhi Leonard at the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, yet he minimized worries regarding the intensity with which his squad, the USA Stripes, will compete.
“You should inquire with the Europeans and the World team about their level of competition,” the Houston Rockets forward stated, chuckling. “If you observe Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic now, let’s reflect on their performances in the All-Star Game. Is that really competition? So, we haven’t questioned their approach. But we’re going to scrutinize the veterans and the Americans.”
“But those two guys, Luka and Jokic, they seem indifferent about the game. They often lie on the floor. They shoot from halfcourt. Yet, we should be concerned about the veterans playing with intensity? I can see the underlying message, man. It’s just a general topic that everyone has been discussing.”
The NBA revealed the rosters for the midseason showcase last week, distributing 25 players across three teams. This marks the introduction of a new All-Star format — a U.S. vs. World round-robin tournament, scheduled for Feb. 15 at the LA Clippers’ venue in Inglewood, California.
Commissioner Adam Silver believes the new format will evoke national pride among the participating players, but Durant opted for a cautious approach.
For years, the idea of a U.S.-vs.-World format has been considered as a potential method to reignite interest in the All-Star Game. Durant appeared uncertain about the effectiveness of the new format.
Durant was later informed that San Antonio Spurs player Victor Wembanyama plans to exert maximum effort during the All-Star Game.
Wembanyama, addressing reporters on Tuesday night, stated, “I’ve watched the All-Star Game and clearly it hasn’t been competitive. I’ve always believed that if I were in that situation, I would never step onto the court with the intention of losing or being indifferent. Just like at home, I never enter a board game thinking I’m going to lose. … I’m going to be out there, I might as well win.”
Durant’s reply: “We’ll see.”
“He mentioned that last year as well,” Durant added. “They claimed it was the least engaging All-Star Game that viewers witnessed. So, we will see. Who knows what will unfold? This format could change the game, but who knows? We’ll see.”
