The NBA is in discussions to introduce a one-on-one tournament as part of the 2026 All-Star Weekend, with a massive $1 million prize up for grabs. The idea, which has been floating around for years, gained significant traction during the 2025 All-Star Weekend, with several NBA stars openly supporting it.
Anthony Edwards was among the first to express his enthusiasm for the concept, stating that Kevin Durant would be the toughest player to beat in a 1v1 setting. Draymond Green, on the other hand, confidently picked LeBron James as his favorite to win such a tournament, citing his size, skill, and experience.
With some of the league’s biggest names backing the idea, the NBA is now seriously considering making it a reality.
According to Front Office Sports, the NBA has discussed a $1 million grand prize for the event, making it the most lucrative skills competition in All-Star history. The format is still being ironed out, but initial reports suggest it could feature a 16-player bracket, with matchups determined by fan voting, seeding, or player challenges.
The rules would likely be modified from traditional streetball one-on-one play to fit NBA standards, but the fundamental aspect of isolation scoring and individual defense would be the highlight.
The NBA has long toyed with the idea of a one-on-one tournament, but the logistics and willingness of superstars to participate have always been obstacles. However, with fan engagement a growing priority and the league looking to enhance All-Star Weekend, this might be the perfect time to introduce it.
The upstart Unrivaled league recently held a one-on-one event where WNBA star Napheesa Collier won a $200,000 grand prize. The NBA’s potential $1 million prize pool would dwarf that, creating a major incentive for players to take it seriously.
With ratings for the All-Star Game fluctuating, the NBA is looking for new ways to boost excitement. A 1v1 tournament featuring the league’s best scorers and defenders could easily become the most anticipated event of the weekend.
While nothing is official yet, the overwhelming support from players and fans suggests the NBA may finally bring one-on-one basketball to the All-Star stage in 2026.
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