2K has today announced the three cover stars gracing the various editions when NBA 2K27 releases later this year. There’s a strong mix of talent across all basketball eras and leagues, with the three athletes chosen more than worthy to grace the covers.
This lineup brings together three generation-defining players who share a relentless passion for the game and the rare distinction of being No. 1 overall draft picks and Rookie of the Year winners. None of them have an off switch when it comes to hoops, and that same competitive spirit is what defines NBA 2K27.
There will be three editions of NBA 2K27 when it releases on September 4, 2026.
On the Standard Edition cover comes Victor Wembanyama, one of the most impactful rookies of recent years. The San Antonio Spurs centre is a two-time NBA All-Star, as well as the first-ever unanimous Defensive Player of the Year for good reason. In his first NBA season, the alien was named Rookie of the Year. Ever since, he’s become a beast on the court thanks to his excellent agility, overwhelming height, and impressive skill.
“When you’re truly obsessed with basketball, the game doesn’t stop when you leave the arena. NBA 2K is the court that never locks up, it’s always open whether you’re in Paris or San Antonio. It’s how you study the game, sharpen your IQ, and live basketball 24/7,” said Standard Edition cover athlete Victor Wembanyama. “To be the face of a game that fuels that hunger for hoops and whose covers immortalize the all-time greats, that’s a dream come true for me.”
The Deluxe Edition features Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. She’s lit the court up ever since her debut in 2024, earning herself the Kia WNBA Rookie of the Year. Since then, she’s become a three-time WNBA All-Star, and just recently scored 45 points and got 10 assists to become the only woman to do so in the WNBA, as well as joining a small, elite list of basketball players to match those numbers.
“Being on the cover of NBA 2K27 is special because this game reaches fans all over the world,” said Deluxe Edition cover athlete Caitlin Clark. “To be the first WNBA player on her own global cover means women’s basketball gets to show up on that stage too, and I am proud to be part of that.”
Finally, the Ultra Edition (limited-time availability) features Chicago Bulls legend Derrick Rose. When the Chicago Bulls won their sixth NBA Championship, it felt like the franchise would never hit those heights again. Jordan, Pippen, and Rodman all left, along with head coach Phil Jackson. Over 10-years later, Derrick Rose became an exciting prospect, giving fans hope once again that maybe the Bulls could be a team to be reckoned with. The 3-time NBA All-Star and youngest MVP in NBA history deserves his place on the cover once again, appearing way back in 2013.
“It’s crazy looking back at being on the NBA 2K13 cover to now having my own edition for NBA 2K27,” said Ultra Edition cover athlete Derrick Rose. “During my journey there have been coaches who believed in me, teammates who made me better, and fans who showed up louder than I ever expected. So, this is a chance to inspire young athletes to stay obsessed with the game. To show them that when you put in the countless hours of hard work, it rewards you.”
For those who buy the Deluxe Edition or Ultra Edition, Early Access will be available on August 28, 2026. Pre-orders are live now for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Players can wish list on Nintendo Switch 2.
