Cover Stars Make a Statement
2K isn’t just celebrating basketball talent with this year’s covers. Each athlete also shared what the moment means to them. For Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the timing couldn’t be better. Coming off a championship run, he called it a dream come true. “Every kid who grows up playing basketball pictures themselves on the cover of NBA 2K,” he said. “To do it after winning an NBA title makes it even more special.”
Angel Reese echoed that feeling, saying her cover spot is more than a personal milestone. It’s about representation. “It’s a statement,” she said, especially as it includes her debut signature shoe with Reebok, the Angel Reese 1. She also paid tribute to the WNBA veterans who paved the way and said she’s proud to be part of a game that continues to spotlight women’s basketball.
Carmelo Anthony, who’s being inducted into the Hall of Fame this year, said the cover honor feels like a full-circle moment. “It’s a celebration of every chapter,” he said, reflecting on his long career and the support he’s received from fans over the years.
What’s New in NBA 2K26
This year’s game puts more focus on competition, customization, and smoother gameplay. 2K says NBA 2K26 is all about bragging rights, whether you’re building a legacy in MyCAREER, running the show in MyNBA, or going head-to-head in MyTEAM.
One of the biggest changes comes from updated ProPLAY features. On Gen 9 platforms, you’ll have more control with new dribble animations, quicker movement, and overhauled size-ups. MyCAREER also gets a refresh, featuring a new journey and a more streamlined City for online matches.
MyTEAM adds new single-player and multiplayer modes, while MyNBA includes 30 different storylines, each focused on building a championship franchise. Whether you want to lead from the bench or shine on the court, NBA 2K26 offers more ways to prove yourself.
More feature breakdowns are coming soon, but for now, 2K is making it clear that Gen 9 improvements will also be available on Nintendo Switch 2.
NBA 2K26 Cover Reveal Sets the Stage for Launch
NBA 2K26 is shaping up to be a big milestone for the series. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Angel Reese, and Carmelo Anthony each fronting a different edition, the covers reflect a mix of rising stars and respected veterans. Their inclusion helps set the tone for a game that’s focused on confidence, growth, and proving yourself.
NBA 2K26 launches on September 5 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2, as well as PS4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. Early access starts August 29 for those picking up the Superstar or Leave No Doubt editions.
We’ll be keeping an eye out as 2K shares more about what’s coming in this year’s full feature lineup. Got your eye on a particular edition? Let us know which cover you’re picking up and what you’re hoping to see in NBA 2K26.
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