Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James earned recognition from his peers, receiving two All-Star starter votes in the 2026 NBA ballot, according to Tim Cato. The 21-year-old, appearing in 24 games this season, averaged 1.5 points, 1.1 assists, and 0.4 rebounds while shooting 32.5% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range.
The NBA revealed that 386 players submitted All-Star starter ballots, ultimately voting for 364 different players. “Some standouts: — Kuminga (1) — Drew Timme (1) — Bronny (2) — Saric (1) — Jay Huff (11) — Jayson Tatum (1),” Cato tweeted, highlighting the unexpected selections.
Bronny joins a list of unusual vote-getters, including Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors and Drew Timme of the Lakers, both receiving a single vote despite limited roles this season. Indiana Pacers center Jay Huff led the lesser-known selections with 11 player votes.
While Bronny’s Lakers teammate Luka Doncic leads the Western Conference starters, demonstrating the contrast between established stars and emerging talents receiving votes.
The 2026 All-Star Game, set for Feb. 15 at the Inuit Dome in Los Angeles, will feature a new format with two U.S. teams and one World team in a round-robin tournament. Starters were determined by fan, player, and media votes, with fans accounting for 50%, players 25%, and media 25%.
Western Conference starters include Stephen Curry (Warriors), Luka Doncic (Lakers), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder), Nikola Jokic (Nuggets), and Victor Wembanyama (Spurs), while Eastern starters feature Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks), Jaylen Brown (Celtics), Jalen Brunson (Knicks), Cade Cunningham (Pistons), and Tyrese Maxey (76ers).
The announcement of reserves will come Feb. 1 on NBC/Peacock during “Sunday Night Basketball,” with coaches selecting seven players per conference without regard to position. This year’s format emphasizes versatility and depth, allowing emerging players like Bronny to gain attention from peers.
