Full Breakdown
John Tesh to Perform "Roundball Rock" at NBA All-Star Game
2/12/2026, 6:30:11 AM
Historic Performance to Celebrate NBA's Return to NBC
John Tesh is set to perform his iconic theme song "Roundball Rock" live at the 75th NBA All-Star Game on February 15, 2026, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. This marks the first time the song will be performed live inside a sports arena, celebrating the NBA All-Star Game's return to NBC after a 24-year hiatus. The song served as the anthem for NBC's NBA coverage from 1990 to 2002 and remains a significant piece of sports music history.
Entertainment Lineup for All-Star Weekend
The NBA has announced a star-studded entertainment lineup for the All-Star weekend. Ludacris, a three-time Grammy winner, will headline the festivities with a performance on February 14, prior to the AT&T Slam Dunk contest. Additionally, Grammy winners Brandy and Sarah McLachlan will perform the U.S. and Canadian national anthems, respectively, before the All-Star Game on Sunday.
The weekend will also feature performances from the five-member K-pop group CORTIS during the Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, which will air on ESPN. The NBA Crossover Concert Series will take place from February 12-15 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, featuring various artists including Shaboozey and CORTIS.
Official Statements & Responses
The NBA emphasized the significance of Tesh's performance, stating that "Roundball Rock" celebrates the league's return to NBC. This new broadcast agreement marks the beginning of an 11-year partnership between the NBA and NBC Sports.
Criticism & Opposition
While the announcement has been met with excitement, some fans have expressed concerns about the focus on celebrity performances overshadowing the actual basketball events. Critics argue that the entertainment aspect may detract from the competitive spirit of the All-Star Game.
Verbatim Quotes
- “celebrates the NBA All-Star Game's return to NBC after 24 years.” — NBA Official Statement
What's Next
As the All-Star weekend approaches, fans can look forward to a series of events leading up to the main game, including the NBA HBCU Classic and the Castrol Rising Stars game, both featuring performances by various artists. The NBA aims to create a vibrant atmosphere that honors both the sport and its cultural significance.
