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BILL WALTON TO BE HONORED AT TNT SPORTS HALL OF FAME SERIES LAS VEGAS ON NOVEMBER 2

 - Arizona-UCLA Game to Celebrate the Hall of Famer's Enduring Legacy with Both Programs and the College Basketball Community -

 

PHOENIX (October 15, 2026) – Position Sports, in partnership with the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, announced that it will honor Hall of Famer Bill Walton when former conference rivals Arizona and UCLA meet in the TNT Sports Hall of Fame Series Las Vegas on Monday, November 2, at T-Mobile Arena. The tribute will recognize his impact on the sport, his legendary career with UCLA, and his deep ties to both programs through his broadcasting and family.

The two men's programs last met in the Hall of Fame Series Los Angeles in November 2025 (Arizona won 69-65), a game that also paid tribute to Walton. This year's matchup will again celebrate his lasting contributions to basketball and his connection to the Arizona-UCLA rivalry, including his son Luke Walton's time as a player with the Wildcats and Bill's decades of work behind the mic calling games for both schools.

“The Walton Family and the Bill Walton Foundation, would like to thank Position Sports and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame for honoring Bill in such a meaningful way,” said Lori Walton, the late Bill Walton’s wife. “Bill would have been deeply touched by this tribute. To see Bill celebrated through the game he loved, surrounded by two programs that were close to his heart, is incredibly special to our family. We are grateful that his love for basketball, and the connections and friendships it created throughout his life, continue to bring people together and keep his spirit alive. As Bill would say “Thank you for your kindness and my life; good and happy everything forever; shine on from the bright side of the road.”

To learn more about the Bill Walton Foundation and its work, visit BillWaltonFoundation.org.

"Bill Walton meant as much to college basketball as anyone who has been part of it, and no rivalry is more closely tied to his story than Arizona and UCLA," said Melissa Meacham-Grossman, President of Position Sports. "Last year's tribute in Los Angeles showed how much he still means to both fan bases, and we are honored to work with Lori and the Walton family to celebrate him again in Las Vegas."

A special pregame recognition will take place before the 7:00 PM PST (10:00 PM ET) tip, with other moments planned during the event to honor his lasting impact on college basketball and his connections to both programs.

Arizona-UCLA is part of Session 2 of the four-game event, which also features Gonzaga vs. Purdue at 4:30 PM PST (7:30 PM ET). Session 1 includes both women's matchups, Stanford vs. Arizona and UNLV vs. USC. Tickets for each session are sold separately and are available at HOFSeries.com. 

For more Hall of Fame Series information and updates, please follow @HOFSeries on all social platforms.

NBA NAMES THREE REFEREES TO 2026-27 OFFICIATING STAFF

NEW YORK, Oct. 14, 2026 – NBA G League referees Nate Cearley (KEER-lee), Brent Haskill (hass-CULL) and Chelisa (SHUH-lee-suh) Painter have been named NBA staff officials for the 2026-27 season, it was announced today by Albert Sanders, NBA Executive Vice President, Head of Referee Operations, and Monty McCutchen, NBA Senior Vice President, Head of Referee Development and Training.

“We are thrilled to welcome Nate, Brent and Chelisa to our full-time NBA officiating staff,” said Sanders. “This significant achievement reflects years of hard work, dedication and high-level performance.”

“Nate, Brent and Chelisa have shown impressive growth as officials during their time in the NBA G League,” said McCutchen. “We look forward to supporting their continued development as they take this next step.”

Cearley, Haskill and Painter will continue to officiate NBA G League games alongside their NBA assignments this season. All NBA referees with fewer than four years of service in the NBA also work NBA G League games to gain additional experience as crew chiefs and develop as leaders.

Cearley refereed eight NBA regular-season games as a non-staff official in the 2025-26 season. The Kansas native has officiated five years in the NBA G League (234 games), earning playoff assignments in all five seasons, including the 2026 NBA G League Finals.

Haskill refereed 32 NBA regular-season games as a non-staff official over five seasons from 2021-22 through 2025-26. He has spent eight years in the NBA G League (336 games) and officiated each of the last four NBA G League Finals. The Florida native has also worked games in the Basketball Africa League and NBA Summer League, including the NBA Summer League championship game in Las Vegas in 2023, 2025 and 2026.

Painter refereed three NBA regular-season games as a non-staff official in 2025-26. She has officiated five years in the NBA G League (215 games), including playoff assignments in three seasons. The Virginia native also spent seven years as an NCAA Division I official. Painter’s addition brings the number of women on the NBA’s full-time officiating staff to nine for 2026-27. The other eight are Dannica Baroody, Simone Jelks, Sha’Rae Mitchell, Ashley Moyer-Gleich, Jenna Reneau, Natalie Sago, Jenna Schroeder and Danielle Scott.

The 2026-27 NBA regular season will tip off Tuesday, Oct. 20 with an NBC/Peacock tripleheader as the Boston Celtics visit the Detroit Pistons (3 p.m. ET), the defending NBA champion New York Knicks host the Philadelphia 76ers (7 p.m. ET) and the San Antonio Spurs meet the Oklahoma City Thunder at Frost Bank Center (9:30 p.m. ET).

For the complete list of 2026-27 NBA game officials, click here.

NBA AND WNBA TO LAUNCH NEW RESPONSIBLE GAMING CAMPAIGN TO REINFORCE THE RISKS OF SPORTS BETTING AND PREDICTION MARKETS

 

– Campaign Will Emphasize That Whether Betting, Trading or Paid Fantasy, They All Carry Financial Risk –

 

– The New Spot Will Run Across Social and Linear Platforms –

 

NEW YORK, Oct. 13, 2026 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) today announced a new responsible gaming campaign in collaboration with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG).  Launching during the 2026-27 NBA season, the campaign will educate fans, particularly young adults, about the risks associated with sports betting and prediction markets.  The campaign will feature a new spot that will run across social and linear platforms through NBA- and WNBA-owned and partner channels.

 

Whether placing a sports bet or trading on a prediction market, both activities can put fans at meaningful risk when not done responsibly.  When participation becomes difficult to control, the impact can extend beyond finances to mental well-being and relationships with family and friends.  The campaign will also emphasize that no matter how much a fan thinks they know about sports, their money is at risk, and these activities should only be for entertainment, not an effort to generate income.

 

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and reducing the harms associated with problem gambling.  Through prevention, education, advocacy, research and support resources, NCPG works to increase awareness, inform decision-making and connect those seeking help for a gambling problem with appropriate resources.

 

The campaign will encourage fans who choose to participate to understand the risks, set limits on the time and money they spend, avoid risking money they cannot afford to lose and seek support if their participation becomes difficult to manage.  Working with the NCPG, the NBA and WNBA will direct fans to responsible gaming education and resources for recognizing problems and seeking help.

“As the ways people engage with sports continue to evolve, it is important that fans understand the risks associated with putting money on sports outcomes,” said Scott Kaufman-Ross, NBA Head of Media Distribution and Partnerships.  “Through this campaign, we want to help fans make informed decisions, understand the risk and, if they choose to bet, trade or anything similar, that they do so responsibly.”

“Helping our fans make informed decisions is central to this effort,” said Colie Edison, WNBA Chief Growth Officer.  “By bringing this campaign to WNBA audiences, we can reach more fans with practical guidance on understanding financial risk, setting limits and recognizing when and where to find support.”

 

“Awareness is an important first step in preventing gambling-related harm,” said Derek Longmeier, President of the NCPG Board of Directors.  “We’re proud to support a campaign that brings greater visibility to the risks of sports betting and prediction markets and puts education at the forefront, helping fans better understand the potential for harm and the resources available to those who may need help.”

 

The initiative builds on the NBA’s ongoing responsible gaming education efforts with the NCPG and extends the campaign’s reach to WNBA fans. Additional details, including the campaign’s creative and debut timing, will be announced at a later date.

 

Fans can visit ResponsiblePlay.org for responsible gaming information and resources. Anyone concerned about their own gambling or that of a loved one can call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET for free, confidential support, available 24/7.

 

PLYR2PLYR Ep. 2: Dillon Brooks & Michael Porter Jr.

PLYRS UNTD, the official lifestyle brand of the NBPA, has released episode two of its original series, PLYR2PLYR. The newly dropped episode features a candid, unfiltered sit-down between Dillon Brooks and Michael Porter Jr.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: The duo opens up about life on and off the court, including:

• Handling negative press, staying grounded, and the "Man in the Arena" mentality.

• Brooks' honest take on his widespread reputation as an NBA "villain."

• Reflections on the pivotal games that built their early career confidence.

• A lighthearted, rapid-fire "Who's Most Likely To" segment.

WHERE TO WATCH:

• Full Episode: Available now on the PLYRS UNTD YouTube channel 

• Clips & First Looks: @plyrsuntd on Instagram and TikTok | @theNBPA on X

ABOUT PLYR2PLYR: 

PLYR2PLYR brings together NBA players from across the league for unfiltered, one-on-one conversations, giving them a chance to get to know each other away from their on-court competition. The series debuted with a conversation between NBA champions Klay Thompson and Norman Powell.

UPCOMING EPISODES: Future pairings slated for this season include:

• V.J. Edgecombe & Nikola Jović

• Buddy Hield & Collin Sexton

• Rui Hachimura & Myles Turner

• Anthony Black & Beckham Black

NBA UNVEILS ALL 30 TEAM COURTS FOR EMIRATES NBA CUP 2026

Images available here

The chase for the NBA Cup begins Friday, Oct. 30 on Prime Video, when Group Play tips off across NBA team markets as the New York Knicks travel to face the Philadelphia 76ers at 7:30 p.m. ET followed by the Los Angeles Lakers at Golden State Warriors at 10 p.m. ET, both streaming on Prime Video.

Throughout the tournament, Emirates NBA Cup games will again be played on custom-designed, fully painted courts. These visually striking courts will be featured during Group Play, the Quarterfinals, and Semifinals, creating a bold and unified look for Emirates NBA Cup games across the league.

Design details include the following:

• Nike "End of Ordinary" Inspiration: Inspired by Nike Basketball's 2026 Standard Issue Collection, the courts extend the collection’s bold design approach to the playing surface, creating a connected look across the league.
• Oversized Team Wordmarks: Team wordmarks inspired by the collection's signature game jacket are mirrored on both sides of each court.
• Center Court Team Identity: Each court features the host team's primary icon at center court.
• Contrasting Court Design: Court color schemes are designed to contrast with the home team's Statement Edition uniform, worn for all Emirates NBA Cup games.
• Cup Elements Throughout: The Emirates NBA Cup trophy remains featured at center court and in the paint.
• Championship Chase Tagline: New for 2026, the tournament tagline, "30 Teams. 8 Advance. 1 Champion." appears near the corner three-point line.

For the Emirates NBA Cup, all 30 teams have been randomly drawn into groups of five within their conference based on win-loss records from the 2025-26 regular season. Beginning Friday, Oct. 30 and continuing through Friday, Nov. 27, each team will play four designated Group Play games on "Cup Nights."

Eight teams will advance to the Knockout Rounds. The Quarterfinals and Semifinals will be played in NBA team markets before the tournament culminates with the winner-take-all Emirates NBA Cup Championship on Friday, Dec. 11 at the iconic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. All Knockout Round games will stream exclusively on Prime Video.

 

For more information about the Emirates NBA Cup 2026, visit NBA.com/nbacup or the NBA App.

Visit NBAExperiences.com for exclusive experiences and premium hospitality for the December 11 Championship at Butler University’s Hinkle Fieldhouse.

HOWARD UNIVERSITY AND TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SELECTED TO PLAY IN NBA HBCU CLASSIC PRESENTED BY AT&T AS PART OF NBA ALL-STAR 2027

– Historic HBCU Institutions Square off on February 20 at NBA Jam Session’s Hardwood Central –

 

NEW YORK, Oct. 13, 2026 – The NBA today announced that the 2027 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T will feature the Howard University and Tennessee State University men’s basketball teams on Saturday, Feb. 20, at Hardwood Central within Jam Session (Phoenix Convention Center), as part of NBA All-Star 2027 in Phoenix.  Tennessee State University will make their first appearance participating in the Classic, while Howard University will compete for the second time after capturing a win in the inaugural NBA HBCU Classic in 2022.  The 2027 NBA HBCU Classic will air on ESPN and NBA TV at 12 p.m. MT and fans can purchase tickets at NBAEvents.com.

“Howard University and Tennessee State University have longstanding connections to the NBA and basketball traditions that span generations,” said NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum.  “The NBA HBCU Classic at NBA All-Star 2027 will celebrate these institutions’ contributions to our game while giving their student-athletes a global platform to showcase their talent and share their schools’ proud histories with fans around the world.”

The 2027 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T is a continuation of the NBA’s commitment to increasing support and awareness for athletics and advancing educational, career and economic opportunities in partnership with HBCUs.  As part of this ongoing commitment, the NBA and AT&T will jointly donate $50,000 each to Howard University and Tennessee State University.  Since 2021, when the NBA expanded its commitment to HBCUs, the NBA family has contributed more than $5.8 million to HBCU institutions, partners and scholarships.

“It is an honor for Howard University to participate in NBA All-Star Weekend for the second time.  We are grateful to the NBA for creating a platform that celebrates HBCUs and connects our students with a global audience,” said Kenny Blakeney, Howard University Head Men’s Basketball Coach.  “This experience extends beyond the basketball court and gives Howard students the opportunity to engage with one of the most significant events in sports, culture and entertainment.  It allows them to learn, build relationships and experience firsthand the energy and possibilities surrounding NBA All-Star Weekend – not simply as student-athletes, but as members of the Howard community.  We look forward to contributing to this special weekend and representing our university, alumni and community with gratitude and pride.”

“I am very excited for my players first and foremost.  They have an opportunity to play on a big stage, one set up by the NBA, and it will be a special moment for them all,” said Nolan Smith, Tennessee State University Head Men’s Basketball Coach.  “To represent Tennessee State on a national platform puts our university, our city, and our alumni in the spotlight – and our school deserves that opportunity.  I cannot wait for us to go to Phoenix and represent Tennessee State University.  I am incredibly thankful to my NBA family for making this opportunity possible.”

Notable NBA alumni with ties to both universities include five-time NBA All-Star John Wall (Howard University Men’s Basketball President of Basketball Operations), 11-year NBA veteran Robert Covington (Tennessee State University Men’s Basketball Chief Basketball Officer), and Nolan Smith (Tennessee State University Men’s Basketball Head Coach and former NBA player).

As part of Foot Locker’s continued support of the NBA HBCU Classic, Foot Locker will once again host an introductory event for the teams during NBA All-Star 2027, inclusive of a competition between each school’s bands and cheer teams.  Tickets for the NBA HBCU Classic also grant fans admission to NBA Jam session on Saturday, Feb. 20.

Harlem Globetrotters Honored with FIBA Order of Merit during Centennial Celebration

OCTOBER 12, 2026 MIES (Switzerland) – The Harlem Globetrotters were presented with the FIBA Order of Merit at the Patrick Baumann House of Basketball in Switzerland, as FIBA paid tribute to the organization's extraordinary contribution to the global growth and promotion of basketball throughout its 100-year history. The ceremony brought together distinguished guests from across the basketball and diplomatic communities. Among those in attendance were FIBA Honorary President and FIBA Foundation President Hamane Niang, Swiss Basketball President Andrea Siviero, and Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Switzerland and Liechtenstein Louis L. Bono. Presented by FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis to Keith Dawkins, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios President, the FIBA Order of Merit recognizes a legacy that extended far beyond entertainment. For a century, the Harlem Globetrotters inspired generations of players and fans while helping bring basketball to new audiences across the globe.

Founded in Chicago in 1926 by Abe Saperstein, the Harlem Globetrotters built a legacy that went far beyond the game itself. By creating opportunities and breaking barriers, the organization helped shape basketball's evolution, from Nathaniel "Sweetwater" Clifton becoming the first African American player to sign an NBA contract to FIBA Women's World Cup gold medallist Lynette Woodard becoming the first woman to join the team in 1985. The Harlem Globetrotters also played a unique role in spreading basketball internationally. Long before the arrival of global television coverage, they introduced the game to communities around the world through international tours that showcased not only remarkable skill but also the joy and values of basketball. Over the decades, they performed before millions of spectators across more than 120 countries and territories, becoming some of the sport's most recognizable ambassadors. "The Harlem Globetrotters are more than basketball. They are more than a tour, more than spinning balls, trick shots, or dunks. They have inspired the world to celebrate what it is to be human. 100 years and counting. I believe they are just getting started," expressed Keith Dawkins.

By awarding the FIBA Order of Merit, FIBA recognized not only a celebrated team, but a century-long commitment to using basketball as a force for connection, inspiration, and positive change, embodying the values that underpin FIBA's vision of building the most popular sports community in the world. "For a century, the Harlem Globetrotters have done more than entertain. They have inspired dreams, broken barriers, transcended borders, and helped grow our game worldwide. Their impact extends far beyond the court, making them truly deserving recipients of the FIBA Order of Merit,” said FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis. In a symbolic moment of gratitude, the Harlem Globetrotters presented a gift to FIBA Honorary President Hamane Niang during halftime of their show in Lausanne, Switzerland, thanking FIBA for the Order of Merit.

Photo: Eric Frachon / Show Media Live Amsterdam RABOBANK go back-to-back at FIBA 3x3 World Tour Bucharest 2026 OCTOBER 11, 2026 BUCHAREST (Romania) – Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED) successfully defended their FIBA 3x3 World Tour Bucharest title, completing a perfect seven-game run from the Qualifying Draw to defeat Fuengirola (ESP), 19-17, in a thrilling Final on Sunday. Led by MVP Worthy de Jong, Amsterdam overcame a determined Fuengirola side to claim their second World Tour stop win of the 2026 season, adding to their triumph at WT Vienna. The Dutch side successfully became back-to-back FIBA 3x3 World Tour Bucharest winners, capping an impressive campaign. Amsterdam hold their nerve Fuengirola made history in Bucharest, becoming the first Spanish team to reach a FIBA 3x3 World Tour Final. But Amsterdam's experience and composure proved decisive in a tense, physical contest. The teams traded the lead throughout a low-scoring Final. Fuengirola held an 8-5 advantage midway through the game before Amsterdam responded to move ahead, 9-8, under four minutes remaining. Isaac Mayo and his teammates continued to fight, tying the game at 12-12 and again at 17-17 after Mayo converted two free-throws following a foul on a two-point attempt. With the title hanging in the balance, de Jong delivered the decisive blow, draining a game-winning two-pointer to seal the 19-17 victory and send Amsterdam to the top once again. The Dutch side's road to the title was far from straightforward. They opened their knockout campaign with a 16-13 win over Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN), with de Jong recording six points, seven rebounds and eight highlights. Amsterdam then faced Miami (USA) in a physical Semi-Final, where de Jong erupted for 16 points to power his team to a 21-18 win. That victory set up the Final against Fuengirola, who had made their own historic run to the championship game. The Spanish side edged Kaunas VDU (LTU), 21-18, in the Semi-Finals after overcoming a 13-12 deficit with a decisive 5-0 run. Isaac Mayo led Fuengirola with eight points as they secured their first-ever World Tour Final appearance and made history for Spanish 3x3 basketball. De Jong named MVP Worthy de Jong was named MVP of FIBA 3x3 World Tour Bucharest 2026 after leading Amsterdam RABOBANK to the title with a series of outstanding performances. The Dutch star finished the tournament ranked first in overall Player Value with 58.4, while his 46 points and 26 highlights also led all players. He collected 20 rebounds, the third-highest total in the competition, and recorded five dunks, ranking second overall. De Jong saved some of his best basketball for the knockout rounds. He helped Amsterdam advance past Hangzhou Jingwei in the Quarter-Finals before taking over in the Semi-Final against Miami. He then delivered the decisive basket in the Final to complete Amsterdam's successful title defense. Side events Lucas Ugolin of Toulouse (FRA) won the Shootout Contest presented by the Romanian Basketball Federation, scoring 16 points to claim the title. Meanwhile, Jeremiah Walker took home the Slam Dunk Contest title presented by BCR. The English dunker secured his third Slam Dunk Contest victory of the FIBA 3x3 World Tour 2026 season, adding Bucharest to his previous wins at WT Vienna and WT Lausanne. Marquee Bucharest stop Bucharest hosted a FIBA 3x3 World Tour stop for the second time, adding another marquee event to a year that had already seen the Romanian capital host two FIBA 3x3 Women's Series stops. The city's established connection to the sport was once again on display as international stars and emerging contenders competed for the title, with Amsterdam RABOBANK ultimately providing the headline story through their successful defense. Final Standings 1. Amsterdam RABOBANK (NED) 2. Fuengirola (ESP) 3. Miami (USA) 4. Kaunas VDU (LTU) 5. Antwerp (BEL) 6. DeQing (CHN) 7. Baskets Bonn (GER) 8. Hangzhou Jingwei (CHN) 9. Ub (SRB) 10. Ulaanbaatar MMC Energy (MGL) 11. Toulouse (FRA) 12. Cluj (ROU) 13. Lausanne (SUI) 14. Taipei WanBao (TPE) 15. Phoenix (USA) 16. Dubai (UAE) What's Next? The FIBA 3x3 World Tour 2026 continues in Macau on October 17-18, as teams resume their pursuit of World Tour titles, valuable ranking points and qualification for the season-ending FIBA 3x3 World Tour Final in Rio de Janeiro. For Amsterdam RABOBANK, Bucharest will be remembered as another successful title defense, an undefeated run and a second FIBA 3x3 World Tour banner of the season. About FIBA 3x3 Exciting, urban and innovative, 3x3 is inspired by several forms of streetball played worldwide and is considered the world’s number one urban team sport. Steered by FIBA, games see two teams of three players face off on a basketball half-court. With a yearly professional circuit for men and women (World Tour and Women’s Series, respectively) and national-team competitions. 3x3 made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Wilson is the Global Ball Partner and Fourteen the official Apparel Partner of the FIBA 3x3 World Tour. FIBA 3x3 events are played on Enlio floors with Wilson balls, Schelde backstops, Bodet shot-clocks, the Magic Sky canopy and the Avant seating system. For further information about 3x3, visit fiba3x3.basketball, FIBA 3x3 accounts on Douyin, Facebook, Instagram, Sina Weibo, Tencent, TikTok, Twitch, Twitter, Youku and YouTube or contact 3x3@fiba.basketball. Tickets on Sale for NBA All-Star 2027 Fan Events   – Tickets Available on NBAEvents.com for the return of NBA Jam Session plus Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, Castrol Rising Stars, NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T and the NBA All-Star Music Festival – – Fans Can Enter to Win Tickets Through NBA All-Star Rewards Program Supporting Local Businesses – PHOENIX, Oct. 8, 2026 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced that tickets are on sale for NBA All-Star 2027 fan events taking place Friday, Feb. 19 to Sunday, Feb. 21 in Phoenix. Tickets to NBA Jam Session, the Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, Castrol Rising Stars and the NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T are available at NBAEvents.com. NBA Jam Session returns for the first time since NBA All-Star 2014 as the league’s ultimate fan experience. From Friday, Feb. 19 through Sunday, Feb. 21 at the Phoenix Convention Center, the three-day event will span more than 300,000 square feet while bringing basketball, culture and entertainment together through more than 40 interactive activations, more than 100 talent appearances, live panels and podcasts, exclusive merchandise and experiences celebrating the NBA’s deep connection to art, fashion, music and technology. NBA Jam Session will be open from noon –9 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The NBA Jam Session experience begins even before the main doors: Canyons on Third will serve as a free, family-friendly space for basketball activities, food trucks and a dedicated viewing area for select NBA All-Star events. This outdoor component offers fans another way to join the NBA All-Star excitement, with no ticket required. NBA Jam Session will also house Hardwood Central, an immersive basketball destination featuring premier NBA All-Star events and programming. The Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, showcasing stars from sports, entertainment and culture, will tip off on Friday, Feb. 19 at 5 p.m. MT, followed by the NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T on Saturday, Feb. 20 at noon MT. Tickets to either game includes same-day access to the full NBA Jam Session experience. Downtown Phoenix will play host to the NBA All-Star Music Festival, a two-night outdoor event on Friday, Feb. 19 and Saturday, Feb. 20 featuring headlining musical performances, food, appearances, photo opportunities and more. Also on Friday, Feb. 19, Castrol Rising Stars will tip off at Mortgage Matchup Center at 7 p.m. MT, featuring the league's top first- and second-year players. Fans can take their NBA All-Star weekend to the next level with NBA Experiences presented by DoorDash, offering unique access and premium hospitality. To learn more and purchase packages, visit NBAExperiences.com.   Local fans will have the chance to win exclusive prizes, including tickets to NBA All-Star 2027 events, through the NBA All-Star Rewards Program, an interactive fan experience available in the NBA Events App. By downloading the app and registering to participate, fans can visit and shop at local businesses to earn rewards, support local entrepreneurs and drive economic activity across the Valley. A full list of participating businesses will be available in the NBA Events App. Restaurants and retail businesses with a Greater Phoenix storefront are invited to apply here.   Prizes include: • NBA All-Star game tickets • All-Star Saturday Night tickets • Castrol Rising Stars tickets • Phoenix Suns game tickets • NBA Jam Session tickets • NBA Store gift cards   Download the NBA App for the latest NBA All-Star 2027 content, including premier benefits and fan rewards offered through NBA ID, the league's membership program. The NBA Events App and NBAEvents.com provide fans with the most up-to-date information on event schedules, tickets and exclusive experiences. Breanna Stewart makes history as two-time Women's World Cup TISSOT MVP SEPTEMBER 13, 2026 BERLIN (Germany) - Breanna Stewart has written herself into FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup history by becoming the first ever two-time TISSOT MVP of the competition. The USA standout helped her side to see off France 97-79 and secure their fifth consecutive crown and 12th in total - eight years after taking the TISSOT MVP accolade in Tenerife. Throughout the tournament, the experienced Stewart was hugely influential. She showed out in the title game with a stunning double-double of 22 points and 10 rebounds. That contributed to an average performance efficiency valuation of 18.8 after racking up 12.8 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.8 assists per outing. She was joined in the lineup by USA colleague Jackie Young who had a decisive role in the title game with 18 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. She averaged 12.3 points, 3.7 boards and 3.2 assists per game across the tournament. Gabby Williams was the star performer for France and it was her brilliance that largely carried them to their first ever Final. The forward excelled at the other end of the floor too. That combined for a performance efficiency valuation of 22.8 from 18.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 2.8 steals per game. Iyana Martin was sensational in her debut edition, propelling Spain to a third-place finish at just 20 years old. The guard led her team in scoring, averaging 17.5 points per game, while also topping the team in assists (4.2) and steals (2.2) per game. Host nation Germany just fell short of a first-ever medal, but attained their best ever finish of fourth place. It was Leonie Fiebich who impressed, logging more than 30 minutes per game and leading the way in performance efficiency at 14.6. She recorded an all-action tally of 9.9 points, 8.6 rebounds and 3.6 assists per outing.