The NBA announced Tuesday that comedian Kevin Hart will serve as the first-ever on-court emcee for the NBA All-Star Game on Feb. 16 at Chase Center in San Francisco. The game, which will air at 8 p.m. ET on TNT, TBS, truTV, and MAX, features a newly reimagined format with four teams competing in three games.
Hart, a longtime NBA fan and four-time MVP of the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game, will provide live commentary from the court, injecting humor and energy into the event. Known for his close relationships with NBA stars, Hart is expected to bring a unique comedic presence while engaging with players and fans.
Joining Hart in the broadcast will be Ernie Johnson, along with team general managers Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Candace Parker, and Kenny Smith. The announcement was solidified in a promotional video featuring four-time All-Star and Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green, inviting Hart to the event.
The All-Star Game will follow a new structure, with teams competing to reach 40 points first in each game. Barkley, O’Neal, and Smith selected their rosters from the NBA All-Star player pool during the All-Star Draft, while Parker will lead a team composed of the Castrol Rising Stars champion squad.
Hart’s involvement marks a significant shift in the NBA’s approach to its All-Star showcase, blending entertainment and competition in an unprecedented way.
