K-pop group Cortis kicks off NBA All-Star 2026 with performance
K-pop boy band Cortis, composed of Martin, James, Juhoon, Seonghyeon, and Keonho, performed as opening night headliner at the NBA Crossover Concert Series during the NBA All-Star 2026 on Feb. 12, becoming the first K-pop act to lead the event.
Earlier this year, they were named “Friends of the NBA,” reinforcing their growing influence across music and sport on a global scale.
Cortis performed at the Los Angeles Convention Center, delivering a high-impact set that showcased their style and stage presence.
They opened with “What You Want,” immediately heating up the crowd, and continued with key tracks including “FaSHioN,” “GO!”—which featured a remix produced by Martin and is also included on the official soundtrack for NBA 2K26 Season 4—and “JoyRide,” each bringing a distinct creative edge to the opening night.
Fans waved banners and signs supporting each member, and Cortis led the crowd in singing a special birthday song for Keonho, whose birthday was on Feb. 14.
One of the night’s most talked-about moments came during the encore, when Cortis unveiled “YOUNGCREATORCREW,” an unreleased track from their upcoming second mini-album.
Introduced without prior announcement, the performance prompted a visible surge of excitement inside the venue. The group shared that the track was created on the night of their debut, Aug. 18, and expressed their excitement of performing it live, encouraging fans to stay tuned for the upcoming album.
The night also marked the first-ever live stage performance of “Mention Me,” an insert song from Sony Pictures Animation’s upcoming animated sports comedy “Goat,” co-produced by and starring NBA legend Stephen Curry, bringing the track from screen to stage for the first time.
They were scheduled to appear at the NBA All-Star Game halftime show, extending their presence across the league’s marquee weekend.