The annual reveal of the NBA 2K video game cover athletes is always a significant moment in the sports gaming calendar, setting the tone for the upcoming release. This year, NBA 2K26 is making a statement by featuring a diverse lineup spanning current stardom, rising influence, and enduring legend status.
Leading the charge on the widely available **Standard Edition** cover is Oklahoma City Thunder guard **Shai Gilgeous-Alexander**. His selection is a clear acknowledgment of his ascent to elite status in the NBA, becoming one of the league`s most dynamic and impactful players. While gracing the cover is undoubtedly “iconic,” Gilgeous-Alexander reportedly expressed particular enthusiasm for collaborating with the game`s developers on the finer points, specifically mentioning the curation of virtual “tunnel fits” and the in-game playlist. Because, naturally, virtual fashion and bops are paramount to the hardwood simulation experience.
Breaking ground on the dedicated **WNBA Edition** cover is Chicago Sky forward **Angel Reese**. Her rookie season was nothing short of phenomenal, despite being cut short by injury. Reese quickly established herself as a dominant rebounder and a prominent figure in the league, earning both All-Rookie and All-Star honors. Her appearance on the cover follows in the footsteps of previous WNBA stars and serves as a powerful symbol. As Reese herself noted, it`s about representation – showing young girls that confidence and boldness have a place on and off the court, and reflecting the growing impact of the WNBA as a whole.
Adding a layer of historical gravitas, the **Superstar Edition** is fronted by future Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer **Carmelo Anthony**. With a decorated 19-season NBA career that includes multiple All-Star appearances and All-NBA selections, Anthony`s impact extends beyond the professional league, highlighted by his remarkable success in international play, including three Olympic gold medals for Team USA. His presence on the cover celebrates a truly legendary career and provides a touch of nostalgia for longtime fans.
For those who simply cannot choose, or perhaps believe in covering all bases, the **Leave No Doubt Edition** brings all three cover athletes – Gilgeous-Alexander, Reese, and Anthony – together on a single design.
Fans can anticipate the virtual tip-off for **NBA 2K26** on **September 5, 2025**. The Standard Edition will be available across a wide range of platforms, including PC, PlayStation (PS4, PS5), Xbox (Xbox One, Series X|S), and Nintendo Switch. The Superstar and Leave No Doubt editions, catering to players on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, will offer early access starting **August 29**. Notably, the WNBA Edition featuring Angel Reese will be released exclusively as a physical copy at GameStop stores in the United States – a perhaps fitting nod to traditionalists in a digital age.
Beyond the cover stars, 2K has also provided early hints about gameplay enhancements. Improvements to the immersive **ProPLAY** feature are expected on the latest generation consoles and PC, aiming for increased realism derived from actual NBA and WNBA footage. An overhauled **MyCAREER** mode is also on the horizon, alongside the anticipated return of fan-favorite modes such as MyPLAYER, MyTEAM, The City, and MyNBA.
In summary, the NBA 2K26 cover reveal strategically balances current league prominence, the undeniable rise of WNBA talent, and the lasting legacy of an NBA icon. This diverse selection, coupled with promised technical refinements, sets the stage for what 2K hopes will be another compelling entry in their long-running basketball simulation franchise.
Callum Darby 
Finley Holt