Tacko Fall absolutely dominated the 2026 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game Friday night, posting a jaw-dropping 20 points, 21 rebounds, and 5 blocks—yet somehow didn’t win MVP. The 7-foot-6 former NBA center was the most dominant player on the court, but teammate Rome Flynn took home the award after scoring 17 points for Team Giannis in their 65-58 victory.
Fall’s performance was a throwback to his brief NBA career, where his towering presence made him a fan favorite despite limited playing time. Now playing in China’s CBA, the Senegalese center showed he still has elite athleticism and timing, swatting away shots and grabbing rebounds over everyone.
His stat line was historically impressive for the Celebrity Game format. 21 rebounds is likely a record for the event, and his 5 blocks shut down Team Anthony’s interior scoring throughout the night. Fall’s presence forced opponents to completely change their offensive approach, settling for outside shots instead of attacking the paint.
Fast Facts:
- Tacko Fall stats: 20 points, 21 rebounds, 5 blocks
- Height: 7 feet 6 inches (tallest player in Celebrity Game history)
- Current team: Playing professionally in China’s CBA
- Former NBA teams: Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers
- Team result: Team Giannis won 65-58
- Award: Teammate Rome Flynn won MVP despite Fall’s superior statistics
Jeremy Lin, another former NBA player on Team Giannis, contributed 12 points and 15 rebounds, plus the game-clinching eight-point shot that sealed the victory. The Lin-Fall frontcourt gave Team Giannis a massive size and experience advantage that Team Anthony couldn’t overcome.
Team Anthony fought hard, with NFL wide receiver Keenan Allen scoring a game-high 18 points and Adrien Nunez adding 13 points. But without an answer for Fall’s rim protection and rebounding, they couldn’t generate enough second-chance opportunities or easy baskets in the paint.
Why It Matters
Fall’s performance proves he still has professional-level basketball skills despite being out of the NBA. His dominance raises questions about whether NBA teams should give the beloved center another opportunity, especially as a situational defender and rebounder off the bench.
The stat line also highlights the quirky MVP voting process for the Celebrity Game, where charisma and entertainment value sometimes trump raw statistical performance. While Fall had the best numbers, Flynn’s scoring touch and smooth playmaking style likely won over voters and fans.
For Fall, it was a reminder to the basketball world that he’s not just a social media curiosity or meme—he’s a legitimate 7’6″ athlete who can still dominate when given the opportunity.
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