February 15, 2025
In a groundbreaking move aimed at promoting inclusivity and showcasing the full range of talent in basketball, the National Basketball Association (NBA) announced today that the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend will feature a mixed-gender basketball exhibition game. This historic event, set to take place in the heart of the All-Star festivities, will see male and female professional basketball players competing side by side for the first time in league history.
The mixed-gender game is expected to be a major milestone for both the NBA and the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), providing a unique platform for top players from both leagues to display their skills in front of a global audience. This exhibition will feature a team of NBA All-Stars paired with WNBA All-Stars, allowing for an exciting blend of fast-paced play and dynamic strategy that transcends gender.
“We’ve always strived to make basketball a sport for everyone, and this mixed-gender game is an opportunity to push the boundaries of what the game can represent,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. “By bringing together the top talent from both the NBA and WNBA, we are not only celebrating the evolution of the sport but also inspiring the next generation of athletes to dream big, regardless of gender.”
The event is expected to draw significant attention from fans worldwide, as it will be the first time that such an exhibition will be played at this level of professional competition. The idea for a mixed-gender game emerged from a shared desire among both leagues to foster greater unity within the basketball community and promote gender equality in sports.
“We’ve seen how basketball has evolved over the years, with women’s sports gaining more visibility and respect,” said WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu, who will be one of the key players in the exhibition. “This game is a chance to demonstrate that when it comes to basketball, talent is what matters most, not gender. It’s an honor to be a part of something that will break new ground and inspire future generations.”
The mixed-gender game will be played using modified rules, ensuring that the event is both competitive and entertaining for fans. The format will feature 10 players on the court, with teams comprised of five players—three NBA All-Stars and two WNBA All-Stars per side. To balance the competition, the game will feature a slightly altered court setup and modified playing time. It’s designed to be fast-paced and entertaining, with an emphasis on inclusivity and collaboration.
This announcement comes at a time when the NBA has been increasingly focused on elevating the visibility of the WNBA and supporting women’s professional basketball. Both leagues have collaborated on numerous initiatives in recent years, including joint promotional campaigns, community outreach programs, and co-hosted events, but this exhibition game will mark the most visible crossover between the two leagues.
The exhibition game is expected to become an annual event, with plans for future All-Star weekends to continue featuring mixed-gender matchups. In addition to the game itself, there will be a variety of interactive fan experiences, including autograph signings, live Q&A sessions with players, and behind-the-scenes content designed to bring fans closer to their favorite athletes.
“This is a moment in history,” said NBA All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo. “To be able to play alongside some of the best WNBA players in the world will be incredible. Basketball has no boundaries, and this game proves that.”
The 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend, which will take place in Chicago, is poised to be one of the most memorable in the league’s history. As the sport continues to evolve and reach new heights, the introduction of the mixed-gender exhibition game is a powerful statement about the NBA’s commitment to gender equity, diversity, and the future of basketball. Fans around the world are already anticipating what promises to be a groundbreaking and historic event in sports.
