Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia is set to make his on-court debut during the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game on February 13 at 5 p.m. at Kia Forum in Inglewood, California. The league announced the rosters for the eagerly anticipated event on February 3.
At 46, Ishbia brings impressive credentials to the game, having been a walk-on player for Michigan State’s 2000 national championship team, coached by Hall of Famer Tom Izzo. He also had a standout high school career at Seaholm High School in Birmingham, Michigan, where he averaged 23.0 points and 7.1 assists as a senior, earning all-state honors and the team MVP title.
Ishbia, who is the president and CEO of United Wholesale Mortgage, became the owner of the Suns and the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury in February 2023, acquiring the teams for a record-breaking $4 billion. Currently, the Suns hold a 30-20 record, ranking seventh in the Western Conference. Notably, Phoenix is also set to host the NBA All-Star weekend in 2027.
In the celebrity game, Ishbia will be joined by an exciting lineup of participants, including rapper Badshah, Dude Perfect co-founder Cody Jones, Olympic sprinter Andre De Grasse, and actor Simu Liu. The team will be coached by actor Anthony Anderson, renowned shooting coach Lethal Shooter, and player development trainer Chris Brickley.
On the opposing side, the Milwaukee Bucks’ All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, along with his brothers Thanasis and Alex, will coach another celebrity team, featuring talents such as writer and producer Keegan-Michael Key, rapper GloRilla, former NBA player Jeremy Lin, and social media creator Jenna Bandy, among others.
As excitement builds for the All-Star weekend, Ishbia’s participation not only highlights his athletic background but also strengthens the connection between the Suns and their fanbase ahead of an eventful 2027. The celebrity game promises to be an entertaining showcase, blending sports and entertainment in a unique celebration of basketball.