NBA 2K26 Reveals Canada's own Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as Cover Athlete
2K has officially unveiled the cover athletes for NBA 2K26, launching worldwide on September 5, 2025, with early access beginning August 29 for certain editions. This year’s cover lineup celebrates basketball excellence, culture, and the journeys of three iconic athletes:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a Canadian, three-time NBA All-Star, 2024–25 NBA MVP and NBA Finals MVP, graces the Standard Edition cover.
- Angel Reese, Chicago Sky forward, WNBA All-Star and rising superstar, headlines the WNBA Edition, exclusive to GameStop in the US.
- Carmelo Anthony, Hall of Fame inductee and 10-time NBA All-Star, is featured on the Superstar Edition.
- All three appear together on the premium Leave No Doubt Edition, available for a limited time.
Why These Stars?
“NBA 2K26 is all about proving yourself on the court, and immortalizing greatness,” said Zak Armitage, SVP & GM of NBA 2K. “Shai, Angel, and Carmelo embody what it means to be bold, confident, and impactful both on and off the hardwood.”
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a proud Canadian and one of the brightest young stars in the league, called his cover appearance “a dream come true,” especially after winning the NBA Championship. Angel Reese, debuting her Angel Reese 1 signature shoe on the cover, emphasized the importance of representing women’s basketball and inspiring young girls. Carmelo Anthony described his cover as “a celebration of every chapter” of his legendary career.
What’s New in NBA 2K26?
NBA 2K26 introduces a number of exciting updates and gameplay enhancements:
- ProPLAY Features (Gen 9): Advanced responsiveness with improved size-ups, faster dynamic movement, and more authentic dribbling.
- MyCAREER: A reimagined journey to NBA stardom, with deeper customization and an updated City to explore.
- MyTEAM: New single-player and multiplayer modes, testing past and present legends.
- MyNBA: Manage your franchise through 30 unique storylines en route to a championship.
- Early access for certain editions starts August 29, letting players experience it all before release.
Editions and Pricing
Standard Edition
- $69.99 (PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch 2)
- $59.99 (Nintendo Switch)
- Features Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Canadian superstar
WNBA Edition (GameStop US Exclusive, Physical)
- $69.99 (PS5, Xbox Series X|S)
- Features Angel Reese
Superstar Edition
- $99.99 (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC)
- Includes 100,000 VC, MyCAREER and MyTEAM bonuses, early access starting August 29
Leave No Doubt Edition (Limited Time — Until September 7)
- $149.99 (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC)
- Includes everything from Superstar Edition, plus extra VC, Season passes, exclusive MyTEAM cards and MyCAREER cosmetics, and early access
Full details, pre-order information, and availability are at the official NBA 2K26 website.
Release Schedule
- Early Access (Superstar & Leave No Doubt Editions): August 29
- Global Release: September 5
Available on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2.
A Celebration of Basketball and Culture
This year’s cover stars reflect a powerful mix of skill, confidence, and influence. Canada’s own Shai Gilgeous-Alexander brings cool composure and elite playmaking, Angel Reese represents the growing impact of the WNBA, and Carmelo Anthony showcases the enduring legacy of NBA greats.