INGLEWOOD, Calif. – The 75th NBA All-Star Game at the Intuit Dome on , featured a unique blend of athletic competition and musical performance, culminating in a stirring rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by R&B icon Brandy, accompanied by the vocal harmonies of June’s Diary. The performance preceded the inaugural USA vs. The World All-Star game format, a shift from the traditional Eastern and Western Conference matchup.
Brandy’s performance wasn’t a solo act. She was joined by the R&B group June’s Diary, who layered their vocals to create an a cappella arrangement that deviated from the standard melody of the national anthem. The performance was described as an original take on the song, offering a fresh perspective on a time-honored tradition. This collaborative approach added a distinct flavor to the pre-game ceremony, setting a tone of innovation for the game itself.
The choice of Brandy, a veteran of the music industry, to perform the national anthem underscores the NBA’s continued effort to connect with a broad audience. Her presence brought a level of star power that resonated beyond the basketball court, attracting fans from both the music and sports worlds. The performance also served as a platform for June’s Diary, providing them with exposure to a massive national audience.
Prior to Brandy’s performance, Sarah McLachlan delivered a rendition of “O Canada,” acknowledging the international representation within the league and the All-Star game itself. This year’s All-Star game featured a Team World comprised of players from outside the United States, competing against two teams of American All-Stars – Team USA Stars and Team USA Stripes – in a round-robin tournament. McLachlan’s performance highlighted the NBA’s growing global reach and its commitment to inclusivity.
The musical entertainment extended beyond the national anthems. John Tesh, known for his composition of “Roundball Rock,” led a performance of the iconic basketball theme song, further energizing the crowd and paying homage to the sport’s history. “Roundball Rock” has been synonymous with NBA broadcasts for decades, and its inclusion in the All-Star Game festivities served as a nostalgic nod to longtime fans.
The 2026 All-Star Game itself marked a significant change in format. The introduction of a USA vs. The World structure aimed to increase the competitive intensity and showcase the global talent within the NBA. The three-team round-robin tournament, featuring Team USA Stars (coached by J.B. Bickerstaff of the Detroit Pistons), Team USA Stripes (led by Mitch Johnson of the San Antonio Spurs), and Team World (under the guidance of Darko Rajaković), provided a unique viewing experience for fans.
The game was broadcast nationally on NBC and streamed on Peacock, reaching a wide audience across the country. The event was hosted by the Los Angeles Clippers at the newly constructed Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance the fan experience. The Intuit Dome represents a significant investment in the future of the Clippers and the city of Los Angeles.
Brandy’s appearance at the All-Star Game comes on the heels of being honored with the Black Music Icon award at the 2026 Recording Academy Honors. This recognition celebrates her lasting impact on the music industry and her contributions to Black culture. The award acknowledges her artistry, innovation, and service, solidifying her legacy as a musical icon.
In December 2025, Brandy concluded her co-headlining “The Boy Is Mine” tour with Monica, a concert series celebrating their hit collaboration from 1998. The tour was a resounding success, drawing large crowds and generating significant buzz in the music world. The partnership between Brandy and Monica demonstrated their enduring appeal and their ability to connect with audiences across generations.
The 2026 NBA All-Star Game, with its innovative format and diverse entertainment lineup, successfully blended the worlds of basketball and music. Brandy’s performance of the national anthem, alongside June’s Diary, provided a memorable moment for fans, while the USA vs. The World format injected new excitement into the annual showcase of NBA talent. The event served as a testament to the league’s continued growth and its commitment to providing a world-class entertainment experience.
