Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram will replace Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, the league announced on . Curry is unable to participate due to right patellofemoral pain syndrome, marking the latest setback for the veteran guard.
Ingram’s selection makes him the second Raptors player named to the All-Star roster this year, joining guard-forward Scottie Barnes. Here’s the first time since that Toronto has had two players selected for the mid-season showcase. The game, the 75th edition of the NBA All-Star Game, will be held at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, and broadcast on NBC and Peacock.
The 6-foot-8 Ingram is averaging 22.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 52 games this season, ranking 16th in the NBA with 1,143 total points. He has recorded 33 games with 20 or more points, contributing to the Raptors’ 32-22 record, which places them fifth in the Eastern Conference.
Ingram’s inclusion in the All-Star Game represents his second selection, his first since earning the Kia NBA Most Improved Player award during the season with the New Orleans Pelicans. He joined the Raptors after a trade from the Pelicans, signing a three-year, $120 million extension with the team in .
“Being an All-Star today is an amazing accomplishment,” Ingram said, according to Sportsnet. “… To God be the glory. I’m thankful for another accomplishment in my book.” He also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to play in Toronto, noting that the move has expanded his game, particularly on the defensive end.
The All-Star Game format this year will feature a round-robin mini-tournament with four 12-minute games, pitting two teams of U.S. Players – USA Stars and USA Stripes – against a team comprised of international players (World). Ingram will play on the USA Stripes team.
Beyond the on-court implications, Ingram publicly acknowledged the support of his girlfriend, rapper Glorilla, in his acceptance speech. He credited her work ethic as a motivating factor in his performance. “Her work ethic pushes me to be better too. So, I want to thank all of those people, everybody that believed in me for sure,” he stated.
Curry, a 12-time All-Star, was originally voted a starter but has been sidelined with his knee injury for the past four games. The Warriors are hopeful he will return to the lineup after the All-Star break on against the Boston Celtics.
The Raptors’ representation in the All-Star Game extends beyond the players themselves. Toronto head coach Darko Rajaković will serve as the head coach for the World team, adding another layer of Canadian involvement to the event.
Ingram’s journey to the All-Star Game underscores a career trajectory marked by consistent improvement and adaptability. His ability to thrive in a new environment with the Raptors, coupled with his dedication to both his craft and personal relationships, has culminated in this latest recognition. The All-Star Game provides a platform not only to showcase individual talent but also to celebrate the global appeal and diverse narratives within the NBA.
