Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena will soon host more than just basketball fans. The city is preparing to welcome attendees from around the globe as a key host location for the NBA All-Star festivities, with a projected reach extending to 214 countries and territories.
The announcement, made by NBA.com Staff, highlights the unprecedented global scale of this year’s All-Star event. Organizers anticipate fans from 56 countries and territories will be in attendance, marking a record for any NBA event held in North America. The reach extends far beyond physical attendance, with broadcasts and digital content slated to be available in more than 50 languages.
This year’s All-Star weekend is also notable for its expansive media presence. Over 310 international media representatives from 34 countries and territories have been accredited to cover the event. More than 200 global content creators, boasting a collective reach exceeding one billion followers, will be embedded within the live broadcasts, in-arena programming, and on-court competitions.
The NBA is leveraging its digital platforms to engage a worldwide audience. NBA ID members globally will have a direct influence on aspects of the All-Star Saturday events, including determining roles for personalities like Druski, Lethal Shooter, and Tyler Toney in competitions such as Kia Shooting Stars, the State Farm 3-Point Contest, and the AT&T Slam Dunk Contest. Voting for the Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game MVP and the NBA All-Star Game MVP will also be open to NBA ID members worldwide via the NBA App and NBA.com.
Nine international broadcast partners – representing China, France, Greece, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Mongolia, and Latin America – will provide live, on-site commentary from Los Angeles, further amplifying the event’s global accessibility.
On the court, the Toronto Raptors are currently holding a record of as of . Their next scheduled game is against the Chicago Bulls on .
The Raptors’ 2025 draft class is also gaining attention. Collin Murray-Boyles, selected ninth and Alijah Martin, picked 39th, represent the team’s recent investment in young talent. Murray-Boyles, despite a recent aggravated left thumb injury sustained in a game against the Indiana Pacers, is expected to participate in the Rising Stars Game as part of Team Melo, alongside players including Reed Sheppard, Stephon Castle, Dylan Harper, Jeremiah Fears, Ace Bailey, and Donovan Clingan.
The selection of Darko Rajaković as head coach of Team World for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game further underscores the Raptors’ growing influence within the league. Rajaković was appointed to the role by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver on .
The global expansion of the NBA, exemplified by the scale of All-Star 2026, reflects a broader trend of increasing internationalization within the sport. The league has actively cultivated fan bases and partnerships in key markets around the world, recognizing the potential for growth beyond its traditional North American stronghold. This year’s event, with its record-breaking reach and diverse participation, serves as a testament to the NBA’s success in establishing itself as a truly global entertainment brand.
The participation of players like Murray-Boyles, despite recent injury concerns, highlights the competitive spirit and dedication driving the league’s rising stars. His inclusion in the Rising Stars Game, even with a lingering injury, demonstrates the importance placed on showcasing emerging talent to a global audience.
The NBA’s strategic use of digital platforms and fan engagement initiatives, such as the NBA ID Member’s Choice Vote, is crucial to maintaining its international momentum. By empowering fans to actively participate in the All-Star experience, the league fosters a sense of ownership and connection that transcends geographical boundaries.
The involvement of a diverse array of international media and content creators ensures that the All-Star Game will be presented through a multitude of perspectives, catering to the varied interests of a global viewership. This multifaceted approach to storytelling is essential for capturing the attention of new audiences and solidifying the NBA’s position as a leading force in the international sports landscape.
The fact that Chris Paul has played for nine different franchises over a 21-year career, while not directly related to the All-Star game, speaks to the player movement and dynamic nature of the NBA, a league that increasingly draws talent from across the globe.
