The highly anticipated reveal of the NBA 2K26 cover athletes is complete, showcasing a diverse lineup representing different facets of professional basketball. Headlining the Standard Edition is Oklahoma City Thunder`s dynamic guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He is joined by WNBA rising star Angel Reese, who takes the cover of the WNBA Edition, and NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, featured on the Superstar Edition. All three athletes unite on the exclusive Leave No Doubt Edition cover.
This selection highlights both current dominance, future potential, and cemented legacy within the sport, offering fans a variety of icons to represent the popular basketball simulation game.
A Trio of Talent for Varied Editions
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, recognized for his exceptional scoring ability and leadership, steps into the prominent role as the face of the game`s widely available Standard Edition. His ascension to this position mirrors his real-world trajectory as one of the NBA`s premier talents. Gilgeous-Alexander expressed his excitement, noting the “iconic” nature of the cover placement and his collaboration with the developers on details like in-game player appearance and soundtrack curation.
Angel Reese`s inclusion on the WNBA Edition cover marks a significant moment. Following a stellar rookie season with the Chicago Sky, despite it being cut short by injury, Reese earned All-Rookie and All-Star honors and led the league in rebounding. Her selection succeeds two-time WNBA MVP A`ja Wilson, signifying her rapid impact and growing prominence in the league. Reese emphasized that her cover appearance is a “statement” about representation and empowering young athletes, solidifying her place in NBA 2K history and acknowledging the foundational work of WNBA veterans.
Rounding out the trio is future Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony, gracing the Superstar Edition. Anthony`s storied 19-season NBA career includes ten All-Star appearances, six All-NBA selections, and a recent induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025. His legacy extends to the international stage, notably his contributions to multiple U.S. Olympic teams, including three gold medals. Anthony`s inclusion honors his enduring impact and legendary status in the game.
Release Details and Platform Availability
2K Games has confirmed the official release date for NBA 2K26 as September 5, 2025. However, players opting for the Superstar or Leave No Doubt Editions will receive advanced access, allowing them to begin playing on August 29.
Platform availability varies by edition. The Standard Edition will be available across a wide range of platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and the forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The more premium Superstar and Leave No Doubt Editions will be exclusive to current-generation platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
The WNBA Edition featuring Angel Reese is specified as a physical-only release in the United States, exclusively available at GameStop retailers. This continues the trend of offering a dedicated physical version to highlight WNBA talent.
Anticipated Game Enhancements
Beyond the cover athlete announcements, 2K Games provided a brief glimpse into planned game improvements. NBA 2K26 is set to feature enhancements to the immersive ProPLAY technology on current-generation platforms (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S). Additionally, players can anticipate an overhauled MyCAREER mode. Fan-favorite modes such as MyPLAYER, MyTEAM, The City, and the franchise simulation mode MyNBA are all confirmed to return.
The reveal of these cover athletes sets the stage for NBA 2K26, merging recognition for current high-performers, a rising star, and a recently honored legend. The selection underscores the game`s expansive view of the basketball landscape as anticipation builds towards the September release.
