John Tesh to Bring Iconic 'Roundball Rock' to 2026 NBA All-Star Game
Get ready for a surge of basketball nostalgia! Legendary musician and broadcaster John Tesh is set to perform his universally recognized NBA anthem, "Roundball Rock," live at the upcoming 2026 NBA All-Star Game. This marks a significant moment, as Tesh will be performing the iconic theme song live inside a sports arena for the very first time.
A Full Circle Moment for an NBA Staple
The announcement, made by the NBA on Wednesday, confirms Tesh's participation in the star-studded weekend festivities. "Roundball Rock" served as the unofficial soundtrack to NBC's NBA coverage for over a decade, from 1990 through 2002. Its distinctive melody and energetic composition became synonymous with thrilling basketball moments, fast breaks, and clutch shots. For a generation of basketball fans, the song evokes immediate memories of the league's golden eras.
This live rendition holds particular significance as it coincides with NBC's renewed presence in the NBA broadcast landscape. Following a 24-year hiatus from airing the league's games, NBC has returned to the broadcast lineup this season, initiating an 11-year agreement. Tesh's performance of "Roundball Rock" is a direct nod to this rich history and the league's celebration of its return to a familiar broadcast partner. The NBA stated that the performance "celebrates the NBA All-Star Game's return to NBC after 24 years."
More Than Just a Tune: The Impact of 'Roundball Rock'
Beyond its catchy rhythm, "Roundball Rock" has cemented its place in sports history. It transcended being just a television theme song to become an enduring symbol of the NBA during a period of immense growth and global expansion. Tesh, who has had a multifaceted career encompassing music, television hosting, and motivational speaking, is intrinsically linked to the song's legacy. His live performance is expected to be a highlight of the All-Star weekend, offering a moment of pure, unadulterated fan connection.
The choice to have Tesh perform live underscores the NBA's commitment to blending current excitement with cherished memories. It's a strategic move that appeals to long-time fans while introducing a classic piece of NBA lore to newer audiences who might only know the song through its enduring legacy.
A Weekend of Stars and Sounds
John Tesh's performance is not the only musical highlight planned for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game weekend, which is set to tip off with Team World vs. Team Stars on Sunday. Grammy Award-winning artist Ludacris will be the headliner, delivering a performance on Saturday before the highly anticipated Slam Dunk Contest. Adding to the patriotic spirit, Grammy winners Brandy and Sarah McLachlan are slated to perform the U.S. and Canadian national anthems, respectively, prior to Sunday's main event.
The choice of performers reflects a deliberate effort to create a diverse and engaging entertainment experience that resonates with a broad audience. From Tesh's nostalgic anthem to Ludacris's contemporary hits and the anthemic performances by Brandy and McLachlan, the weekend promises a rich tapestry of sound.
The All-Star Game's Broadcast Future
The 2026 NBA All-Star Game will be broadcast on NBC and its streaming service Peacock, highlighting the league's multi-platform approach to reaching fans. This partnership with NBC, which began this season, signifies a new chapter for the NBA's media presence. The return of "Roundball Rock" to the broadcast stage is a fitting tribute to this renewed relationship, connecting the league's past, present, and future.
As the NBA All-Star Game approaches, anticipation is building not just for the on-court action but also for the memorable moments that define the weekend. John Tesh's live performance of "Roundball Rock" is poised to be one of those indelible moments, a powerful reminder of the enduring magic of basketball and its iconic soundtrack.
The event is scheduled to take place in Inglewood, California, promising a spectacular showcase of talent and entertainment for fans across the globe.
