2K has today revealed that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Angel Reese, and Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony are the cover athletes of NBA 2K26. There will be three different covers this year, and each athlete has rightfully earned their place on the most prestigious basketball game series of all time. NBA 2K26 will be releasing September 5 on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2. ANyone that purchases the Superstar Edition or the Leave No Doubt Edition will get access a week earlier on August 29.
“SGA’s elite IQ and ice-cold composure mixed with his effortless street style, Angel’s on-court bravado and ability to own the moment, and Carmelo’s reputation as one of the most iconic trendsetters and prolific scorers in NBA history leave no doubt they’re superstars on the court and in any room they walk into,” said Zak Armitage, SVP & GM of NBA 2K. “NBA 2K26 is all about proving yourself on the court, and immortalizing greatness. These three are among the boldest, most confident, and stylish personalities in the NBA and WNBA.”
All-Star Oklahoma City Thunder Point Guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will grace the NBA 2K26 Standard Edition. “Every kid who grows up playing basketball pictures themselves on the cover of NBA 2K – it’s a dream come true moment, especially following an NBA Championship,” said Gilgeous-Alexander. “Being on the cover is iconic but working with 2K and Visual Concepts to set the tone in-game from curating the tunnel fits to the playlist that players will ball to is what makes this truly special.”
As for the NBA 2K26 WNBA Edition, Chicago Sky Forward Angel Reese will be making her debut on the cover of the GameStop Exclusive Physical Edition available in the United States. “Being on the cover of NBA 2K26 and debuting my first-ever signature shoe with Reebok on that cover, the Angel Reese 1, is more than a milestone—it’s a statement,” said Reese. “It’s about representation and showing young girls they can be confident, bold, and take up space unapologetically. To be cemented in NBA 2K history is a special honor that reflects not only my journey, but also all the veteran WNBA players who have paved the way before me and the growing impact of the league as a whole. I’m proud to be part of a game that continues to elevate women’s basketball and can’t wait for fans to see how NBA 2K26 brings our game to life like never before.”
Finally, 10-time NBA All-Star Carmelo Anthony will feature on the cover of NBA 2K26 Superstar Edition. “For more than 20 years, 2K fans have been a part of my journey,” said Anthony. “Being honored on the cover of NBA 2K26 and inducted into the Hall of Fame in the same year is surreal. It’s a celebration of every chapter, every city that embraced me, every team that believed in me, and every person who’s been part of this ride with me.”
Pre-orders for NBA 2K26 are now live for all four editions, and you can find all the information about them on the official website.
