The NBA announced the 2025-26 Kia All-NBA Third Team on May 24, 2026 [1].
These selections identify the top performers of the regular season and determine the elite tier of players at each position. The honors serve as a benchmark for individual success and often influence future contract negotiations and league accolades.
The third team consists of five players [2]: Jalen Duren, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Johnson, Tyrese Maxey, and Jamal Murray [1]. The league released a highlight reel showcasing the best moments from these athletes during the 2025-26 campaign [3].
While the third team recognizes a diverse group of standout talent, the overall All-NBA selections this year featured a rare level of consensus at the top. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokić were the only two players to be selected unanimously across the three teams [1].
The announcement follows the conclusion of the regular season and is based on voting from a panel of experts. This year's list reflects a shift in the league's landscape, highlighting the rise of younger stars alongside established veterans. The inclusion of players like Holmgren and Duren underscores the evolving role of the frontcourt in the modern game.
All-NBA teams are categorized into first, second, and third teams, with the third team honoring the next-best five players at their respective positions [1]. The selections are a critical part of the NBA's end-of-season honors, providing formal recognition to the league's most impactful contributors.
“The third team consists of five players: Jalen Duren, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Johnson, Tyrese Maxey, and Jamal Murray.”
The composition of the 2025-26 Third Team highlights a transition in NBA power dynamics, as several younger players have entered the league's elite tier. By rewarding versatility and efficiency, these selections signal a continuing trend toward multi-positional players who can impact the game both defensively and offensively.
