Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to shake up the NBA All-Star Game with a USA vs. World format

The NBA Playoffs are still rolling, but Giannis Antetokounmpo already has his eyes on All-Star Weekend — and he wants to see some flags flying.

The Greek Freak took to X and reposted a mock-up of a reimagined All-Star format that would split the rosters into Team USA vs. Team World, writing: “This should be next year All Star Game format!! Must see basketball.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo wants the NBA All-Star Game to be a USA vs. World format

This should be next year All Star Game format!! Must see basketball💯🔥 https://t.co/OFtmk6JNxW

— Giannis Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) May 26, 2025

It’s a bold pitch, and honestly, it might be what the league needs after this year’s All-Star snoozefest in Indianapolis, where the lack of defense, effort, and general interest led to players — including Kevin Durant — publicly airing out their frustrations. The game was so bad, Durant floated the idea of canceling it altogether.

Giannis’ idea at least brings something fresh. A proposed Team World lineup featuring himself, Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Victor Wembanyama is no joke. That’s three MVPs (or future ones), international icons, and an absurd amount of size, skill, and versatility.

Matched up against any combo of Steph Curry, LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, Anthony Edwards, and Joel Embiid (depending on which country he wants to claim that week), you’ve got an actual competitive showcase on your hands.

Of course, the tricky part is the bench. Last year, just seven of the 26 All-Stars were international players, which would make filling out Team World’s roster a little more complicated. And since All-Star selections factor into contracts, bonuses, and legacies, any major shakeup to the process could ruffle feathers among the league’s American stars.

Still, it beats what we’ve been getting. The draft format lost its luster. East vs. West hasn’t mattered in years. If the NBA wants to reinvigorate All-Star Weekend and capture some of the edge from international competitions like the FIBA World Cup or the NHL’s new 4 Nations Face-Off, this could be a step in the right direction.

Adam Silver has already shown interest in international-inspired formats, and if there’s anyone who can get the conversation started, it’s Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Whether it’s next year or a few seasons down the line, the league might want to seriously consider letting the world take a shot at the red, white, and blue — at least for one night.

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