NBA & FIBA Reshape Global Talent Pipeline with BWB All-Star

The Next Generation Takes Center Stage in Los Angeles

The 10th annual BWB All-Star camp is set to ignite Los Angeles from February 13-15 at the UCLA Health Training Center. This exclusive event, coinciding with NBA All-Star 2026, will gather 40 of the brightest high-school-age prospects from 29 countries and territories. It's a prime opportunity for these young athletes to showcase their skills on the world's biggest stage.

This camp isn't just about competition; it's a holistic development experience. Participants will undergo rigorous athletic testing, movement efficiency drills, skill development, and engage in 3-on-3 and 5-on-5 games. Crucially, they'll also participate in life-skills seminars, preparing them for the demands of professional basketball and beyond.

"BWB Next Up": A Game-Changing Pathway for Global Talent

In a groundbreaking move, the NBA and FIBA are introducing "BWB Next Up," a reimagined program that promises to revolutionize international player identification and development. This new format will feature two annual camps, each bringing together 80 top male and 80 top female prospects from outside the U.S., effectively replacing the previous regional BWB camps.

Brendan McKillop, NBA Associate Vice President, Head of Elite Basketball, emphasized the program's enhanced impact. He noted that "BWB Next Up" will strengthen the competitive experience and establish a clearer pathway for top performers to advance to the prestigious BWB All-Star camps at both NBA and WNBA All-Star events. This strategic evolution underscores a deep commitment to nurturing talent worldwide.

Kimberley Gaucher, FIBA Head of Players Unit, highlighted the global exchange this format fosters. By uniting diverse styles of play and training philosophies, the program aims to create a more powerful learning environment, accelerating development and broadening perspectives for all involved. This unified approach strengthens the shared commitment to growing basketball globally.

Mentorship and Leadership from Basketball's Elite

The BWB All-Star 2026 camp will feature an incredible lineup of mentors. Current and former NBA and FIBA players, legends, and coaches, including Danilo Gallinari (Italy) and James Gist, will guide the young prospects. Their invaluable experience offers a direct link to the highest levels of the sport.

Furthermore, members of the NBA Coaching Development Program (CDP), such as former NBA players Scotty Hopson, Khalid El-Amin, and Craig Smith, alongside former WNBA player Meighan Simmons, will serve as coaches. This ensures top-tier instruction and mentorship for the aspiring athletes. The camp will be directed by Patrick Hunt (World Association of Basketball Coaches President), Chris Ebersole (Los Angeles Lakers Director of Player Development and Experience), and Luca Desta (longtime NBA front office executive).

A Proven Track Record of Success

The BWB program boasts an undeniable legacy of success. Of the record 135 international players on NBA opening-night rosters this season, over 50 are BWB alumni. This includes current NBA All-Stars like Deni Avdija (Portland Trail Blazers; BWB Europe 2018; BWB All-Star 2019), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder; BWB All-Star 2016), Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets; BWB All-Star 2015), and Pascal Siakam (Indiana Pacers; BWB Africa 2012). Their journeys exemplify the program's profound impact.

Since its inception in 2001, BWB has engaged over 4,900 participants from 149 countries and territories. An impressive 143 former campers have gone on to play in the NBA or WNBA. This consistent pipeline of talent solidifies BWB's role as a crucial incubator for global basketball stars.

Meet the Future Stars: BWB All-Star 2026 Roster

The anticipation is building for the 40 elite prospects ready to make their mark at BWB All-Star 2026. These young athletes represent the pinnacle of high-school-age talent from across continents, showcasing the truly global reach of basketball.

(Rosters subject to change)