Kevin Durant laughed off concerns about the competitiveness of the USA Stripes team he'll join at the 2026 NBA All-Star Game. The Rockets star questioned why Americans are being scrutinized for playing hard when international stars like Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic "lay on the floor" during exhibitions. Durant's remarks came as the league prepares for its new U.S. vs. World format that debuts next month.

The NBA announced rosters for the midseason showcase last week, splitting 25 players across three teams for the tournament in Inglewood on Feb. 15. Commissioner Adam Silver believes the format will tap into national pride, but Durant remains skeptical. Victor Wembanyama vowed to play hard, prompting Durant to recall that similar promises failed to deliver competitive action during last year's event.

Durant dismissed the notion that Americans need to temper their competitiveness while international players coast through exhibitions. The 37-year-old pointed to the lackadaisical play of Doncic and Jokic in previous All-Star Games as evidence. With the new format debuting, all eyes will be on whether the change sparks genuine competition or continues the exhibition-style tradition that has drawn criticism in recent years.