ESPN and NBA Reveal Star-Studded Lineups for the 2026 Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game

ESPN and the NBA unveiled the full rosters for the 2026 Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, a star-studded showcase set for Friday, Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. ET at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California. This All-Star Celebrity Game mixes musicians, actors, creators, and athletes into a lively sports event that stretches beyond the court, with global names from Marvel movies, FIFA World Cup history, and top NFL talent on display. Fans get pregame analysis from ESPN’s digital show, Hoop Streams, followed by a live broadcast on ESPN. Expect returning favorites, fresh faces, and cross-industry matchups designed for highlights and moments fans discuss long after tipoff. Pickup plays, halftime surprises, and friendly rivalries will shape the night, while a K-pop halftime performance adds international flair. For fans planning attendance, tickets remain available and demand looks high. Use the official link for seats and arrival details: Tickets. Final note, this Celebrity Game sits within a broader All-Star Weekend lineup that draws attention to basketball culture and entertainment worldwide, offering strong fan value and memorable live moments.

ESPN and NBA reveal star-studded All-Star Celebrity Game lineups

Rosters announced by ESPN and the NBA deliver a true star-studded mix. The lineup includes entertainers and athletes from music, film, soccer, and football, each bringing unique skills to the court.

Highlights include multi-platinum artists, former NBA players, and global sports champions, all assembled for an engaging Celebrity Game experience. Expect competitive play paired with entertainment moments built for social clips and broadcast appeal.

Notable names on the Celebrity Game rosters

• Keegan-Michael Key, actor, writer, and producer bringing court charisma and theater experience.
• Badshah, multi-platinum rapper and Indian entertainment icon, offering global star power.
• Mustard, producer known for hit records and high-energy presence.
• GloRilla, rapper whose stage presence translates to dynamic in-game moments.
• Jeremy Lin, NBA champion adding veteran basketball IQ to the roster.
• Amon-Ra St. Brown, Los Angeles native and All-Pro NFL wide receiver bringing elite athleticism.
• Keenan Allen, six-time Pro Bowler and Chargers standout with reliable hands and court feel.
• Cafu, Brazilian legend and two-time FIFA World Cup champion offering global credibility.
• Tacko Fall, 7-foot-6 former NBA player creating matchup intrigue near the rim.
• Rome Flynn, reigning Celebrity Game MVP returning to defend the honor.

Each listed participant brings a clear role: scoring highlights, creating viral clips, or anchoring defensive moments. Fans should watch for unexpected playmaking from surprising names, and for moments designed for social sharing. This mix raises the entertainment ceiling for the event.

Pregame energy builds through clips and interviews that preview matchups and personality clashes. ESPN’s roster breakdown offers context on player backgrounds and likely on-court roles.

Coaches, broadcast team, and Hoop Streams pregame coverage

Coaching duties bring a mix of elite players and entertainment figures to the sidelines. Giannis Antetokounmpo leads a staff that includes his brothers Thanasis and Alex Antetokounmpo, while Mookie Betts joins as a celebrity coach with championship pedigree.

Broadcast coverage centers on ESPN voices Mark Jones on play-by-play, analyst Richard Jefferson, and sideline reports from Monica McNutt. Hoop Streams delivers a digital pregame at 6:30 p.m. ET, hosted by Vanessa Richardson with analyst Iman Shumpert, offering player interviews and final predictions.

Coaching impact and broadcast notes

Coaches shape match tempo and assign celebrity roles, turning a fun contest into a display of smart plays. Broadcast talent frames narrative through pregame interviews and instant reactions, increasing viewer engagement across platforms.

Hoop Streams provides early access to behind-the-scenes moments and last-minute roster notes, helping viewers plan which segments to follow live. Fans watching online receive direct commentary and spotlight clips ahead of the main ESPN telecast.

Halftime cultural moment and global reach of the Celebrity Game

Halftime features a first-ever K-pop performance by five-member group CORTIS, reflecting the league’s growing engagement with Asian audiences. CORTIS joined the NBA’s “Friends of the NBA” program and brings a packed, choreographed show designed for global broadcast.

The Celebrity Game serves as a cross-cultural platform, linking basketball to music and film audiences across continents. This cultural bridge boosts international attention and strengthens ties between the league and global entertainment partners.

Why the halftime choice matters

Adding a K-pop halftime act expands audience demographics and drives social conversation outside standard sports circles. For fans, halftime becomes a must-watch segment with music, choreography, and crossover publicity.

Event planners create value by pairing competitive play with high-profile entertainment, raising ticket demand and streaming interest. Expect social metrics to spike around the halftime performance and postgame clips.

What fans should know before attending or tuning in

Planning yields a better live experience and prevents missed moments. Arrive early for warmups and entertainment, follow official social channels for last-minute updates, and set reminders for Hoop Streams pregame.

• Tip 1: Tune to Hoop Streams at 6:30 p.m. ET for pregame interviews and roster insights.
• Tip 2: Watch the ESPN telecast for full play-by-play and sideline reports starting at 7 p.m. ET.
• Tip 3: Expect viral highlights from celebrity matchups and halftime performance by CORTIS.
• Tip 4: Check the official ticket link before travel: Tickets.
• Tip 5: Follow event hashtags and league feeds for behind-the-scenes clips and fan interactions.

These practical steps help you catch key moments and avoid missing high-impact plays and performances. Fan preparation increases live enjoyment and ensures full access to highlights.

Our opinion

The 2026 Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game delivers both spectacle and sport, blending high-profile talent with moments that matter to fans. This event enhances All-Star Weekend by offering fresh storylines and broadcast-friendly highlights, raising value for live and remote audiences.

For fans seeking a memorable night, plan arrival, follow Hoop Streams, and watch the ESPN broadcast for a full experience. Expect entertainment and competitive play to create lasting highlights and new fan conversations.