NBA 2K26 Turns Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Into More Than Just A Cover Athlete

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander | NBA 2K26

NBA 2K PR

NBA 2K is one of the biggest game releases each year, but NBA 2K26 feels especially unique for Oklahoma City Thunder fans this time around. Not only is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the cover, but he enters NBA 2K26 as the second-highest-rated player in the game at a 98 overall — trailing only Nikola Jokic. From the moment you fire up the game, it’s clear how central he is to the experience. The very first thing you see in MyPLAYER is a digital version of Gilgeous-Alexander introducing your story. He sets the tone, becoming your first real interaction inside the game.

That presence doesn’t fade once you’re past the opening sequence. He’s featured in your MyPLAYER home, has his debut Converse signature sneaker in the butter color way spotlighted in The City’s Converse Store, and he even helped curate the soundtrack for Season 1.

In short, Gilgeous-Alexander isn’t just a face on the cover. He’s woven into the identity of 2K26.

From a gameplay perspective, whether you’re playing with the Thunder or another team, the experience is phenomenal in this iteration of NBA 2K. This isn’t just an upgrade, it’s a reinvention of both gameplay and presentation. From hyper-realistic movement and skill-based controls to unmatched visuals and atmosphere, it’s the most complete basketball simulation the series has ever offered. NBA 2K26 delivers the most fluid and skill-driven experience in franchise history, thanks to major overhauls powered by ProPLAY’s Motion Engine. This machine-learning system dynamically adjusts player movement—plants, cuts, and launches feel more authentic than ever, marking the biggest leap since 2K21. Shooting has also been reinvented with Enhanced Rhythm Shooting, where precision, timing, and mechanics determine success. Layup timing is now permanent, shot outcomes follow a Green-or-Miss system, and new animations bring real-life realism to every jumper.

This is abundantly clear when playing with Gilgeous-Alexander in the game. On the court, the detail is striking. His jumper, his rhythm, even the way he carves out space on drives all look and feel like watching him on a real Thunder broadcast. It’s one of those rare moments in sports gaming where the virtual and the real blur together.

Visually and atmospherically, NBA 2K26 sets a new standard. Player models showcase unprecedented fidelity, with upgraded skin shaders, stitching detail on jerseys, and lifelike body definition. Arena lighting and floor shaders replicate the look of real NBA courts down to wood grain and post-game haze. Crowds are livelier than ever, featuring double the variety of fan models waving rally towels, foam fingers, and even rubber chickens, while LED wristbands sync for coordinated light shows in select arenas. Each of the 30 NBA home courts has been rebuilt with team-specific features.

Paycom Center looks phenomenal in NBA 2K26, with every detail captured. From Nick Collison’s jersey retirement banner, to the conference and division championship banners, to the scoreboards and jumbotron being identical to the real-life versions, it’s about as realistic as a game can get.

For Thunder fans, there are added touches that make the experience even more special. An underrated highlight is a first look at the gold tag on the back collar of Oklahoma City’s uniforms that will be worn this season as reigning champs.

When it comes to overall team ratings, the Thunder are unmatched in 2K26, earning the highest rating in the game at 86, ahead of the second-place Knicks at 84. Individually, Jalen Williams breaks into the 90s, and Chet Holmgren comes in at 88, giving Oklahoma City three stars to build around in virtual play just as they do in real life.

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 98
• Jalen Williams: 90
• Chet Holmgren: 88
• Isaiah Hartenstein: 82
• Lu Dort: 81
• Alex Caruso: 80
• Cason Wallace: 79
• Isaiah Joe: 78
• Aaron Wiggins: 77
• Kenrich Williams: 76
• Jaylin Williams: 75
• Ajay Mitchell: 73
• Ousmane Dieng: 72
• Nikola Topic: 72
• Thomas Sorber: 71
• Branden Carlson: 70
• Brooks Barnhizer: 69

NBA 2K is always a staple release, but this year feels different. For Thunder fans, and especially for those who’ve watched Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rise to superstardom, 2K26 isn’t just another installment — it’s a celebration.