SGA's Injury Replacement Revealed for Team World Roster for 2026 NBA All-Star Game vs. USA

Houston Rockets center Alperen Şengün is replacing Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game.

An abdominal strain ruled the reigning MVP out for the annual showcase, opening the door for Şengün to earn his second All-Star nod.

The 23-year-old is averaging 20.8 points, 9.4 rebounds and 6.3 assists. He delivered one of his best performances in a losing effort on opening night. He finished with a double-double (39 points and 11 boards) as Houston lost 125-124 to Oklahoma City in double overtime.

Rockets-Thunder Full Highlights

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In addition to Şengün's solid individual numbers, the Rockets' 32-19 record and fourth-place standing in the Western Conference helped boost his All-Star candidacy.

Finally taking the advice of fans who wanted to see an international feel for the All-Star Game, the NBA adopted a new USA vs. the World format this season. Two teams of American-born stars will battle against two international squads in a round-robin tournament.

The Los Angeles Lakers' Luka Dončić, Milwaukee Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo, Denver Nuggets' Nikola Jokić and San Antonio Spurs' Victor Wembanyama are among the headliners from the World player pool, which now includes Şengün.