View source for NBA 2K

{{short description|Video game series}}
{{About|the video game series|the first game in the series|NBA 2K (video game)}}
{{Use American English|date=July 2022}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2025}}
{{Infobox video game series
| title = NBA 2K 
| image = NBA 2K logo.svg
| caption = ''NBA 2K'' video game series logo 
| developer = [[Visual Concepts]]<br>[[Saber Interactive]] (''Playgrounds 2'')<br>[[Cat Daddy Games]] (''MyNBA2K companion app, Mobile and SuperCard'')
| publisher = [[Sega]] (1999–2004)<br>[[2K (company)|2K]] (2005–present)
| genre = [[Sports game|Sports]] ([[Basketball]])
| platforms = [[Dreamcast]]<br> [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]]<br>[[PlayStation 2]]<br>[[Xbox (console)|Xbox]]<br>[[GameCube]]<br>[[Xbox 360]]<br>[[PlayStation 3]]<br>[[Microsoft Windows]]<br>[[PlayStation Portable]]<br>[[Wii]]<br>[[Android (operating system)|Android]]<br>[[iOS]]<br>[[macOS]]<br>[[Wii U]]<br>[[Xbox One]]<br>[[PlayStation 4]]<br>[[Nintendo Switch]]<br>[[Google Stadia|Stadia]]<br>[[PlayStation 5]]<br>[[Xbox Series X and Series S|Xbox Series X/S]]<br>[[Nintendo Switch 2]]
| first release version = ''[[NBA 2K (video game)|NBA 2K]]''
| first release date = November 11, 1999
| latest release version = ''[[NBA 2K26]]''
| latest release date  = September 5, 2025
}}

'''''NBA 2K''''' is a series of [[basketball]] [[Sports game|sports]] [[simulation video game]]s developed by [[Visual Concepts]] and released annually since 1999. The premise of the series is to emulate the [[sport]] of basketball and the [[National Basketball Association]].

The series was originally [[video game publisher|published]] by [[Sega]]. Beginning with 2005's ''[[NBA 2K6]]'', the series is currently published by [[2K (company)|2K]] (previously under the 2K Sports sub-label). As of 2024, the series consists of twenty-five main installments and several spinoff titles across eighteen different platforms. An official [[eSports]] league, the ''[[NBA 2K League]]'', launched in 2018.

Until 2018, the series' primary rival was the ''[[NBA Live]]'' series published by [[EA Sports]].

==Gameplay==
Each installment in the ''NBA 2K'' series emulates the [[National Basketball Association]], and present slight improvements over the previous installments. As such, gameplay simulates a typical game of basketball, with the player controlling an entire team or a select player; objectives coincide with the [[rules of basketball]] and presentation resembles actual televised NBA games. Various game modes have been featured in the series, allowing for gameplay variety. Numerous elements of the games feature customizable options. Each game features the teams and players from the current NBA season; historic NBA teams and players have also been featured, as have [[EuroLeague]] teams and (starting with ''[[NBA 2K20]]'') [[Women's National Basketball Asso<ref name="WNBA_TheW_2K21">{{cite web |last1=Rizzo |first1=Sebastian |title=Title: Introducing The W: First-Ever WNBA MyPLAYER Experience in NBA® 2K21 for Next-Gen |url=https://newsroom.2k.com/ |website=newsroom.2k.com |publisher=2K Newsroom |access-date=1 November 2025}}</ref>ciation|WNBA]] teams. NBA 2K21 expanded WNBA integration with The W, a dedicated career mode allowing players to create a WNBA My PLAYER and compete across all 12 teams. Fictional players and teams can also be created and compiled.<ref name="Polygon article">[http://www.polygon.com/2014/6/3/5775846/nba-2k-best-sports-game-last-generation-ps3-xbox-360 "Looking back on ''NBA 2K'': The best sports game of the last generation"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]'' (June 3, 2014). Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref name="Polygon article 2">Lien, Tracey (September 17, 2012). [http://www.polygon.com/gaming/2012/9/17/3345836/NBA-2k13 "Making 'That 2K': How Visual Concepts brought NBA 2K to dizzying heights"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref name="Polygon article 3">Good, Owen S. (February 15, 2015). [http://www.polygon.com/2015/2/15/8043147/nba-2k-is-bigger-than-madden-because-it-paid-for-others-failures "''NBA 2K'' is bigger than ''Madden'' because it paid for others' failures"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

A staple of the series is its [[career mode]], which has been described as a sports-themed [[role-playing video game]]. ''[[ESPN NBA Basketball (video game)|ESPN NBA Basketball]]'' was the first game in the series to feature such a mode, but it wasn't until ''[[NBA 2K10]]'' and its successors that the mode became a more integral part of the series. The mode was initially titled 24/7, before being changed to MyPlayer, and settling on MyCareer. The modes center on the basketball career of the player's created player; the player customizes several aspects of their player and plays through their career in the NBA. Key events in the player's career are depicted, such as the [[NBA draft|draft]] and their retirement ceremony. A storyline is often present in the modes, and [[high school basketball|high school]] and [[college basketball|college]]-level basketball has also been depicted. The player upgrades their player's attributes as they play, and can participate in off-court activities.<ref>{{cite web |last=Navarro |first=Alex |date=October 1, 2006 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/espn-nba-basketball-preview/1100-6076243/ |title=''ESPN NBA Basketball Preview'' |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=January 8, 2017}}</ref><ref>Mazique, Brian (October 2, 2012). [http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/1355718-nba-2k13-tips-for-building-a-beastly-my-player-in-my-career-mode "''NBA 2K13'': Tips for Building a Beastly 'My Player' in My Career Mode"]. ''[[Bleacher Report]]''. Retrieved January 8, 2017.</ref><ref>Ahearn, Nate (September 21, 2009). [http://ign.com/articles/2009/09/21/nba-2k10-my-player-hands-on "''NBA 2K10'': MyPlayer Hands-On"]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 8, 2017.</ref><ref>S. Good, Owen (September 14, 2015). [http://www.polygon.com/2015/9/14/9324183/nba-2k16s-latest-trailer-looks-like-a-true-spike-lee-joint "''NBA 2K16''{{'}}s latest trailer looks like a true Spike Lee joint"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 8, 2017.</ref><ref>Kaiser, Rowan (February 1, 2013). [https://www.engadget.com/2013/02/01/when-sports-and-role-playing-games-collide/ "When sports and role-playing games collide"]. ''[[Engadget]]''. Retrieved January 8, 2017.</ref>

Another mainstay of the series is a mode allowing the player to assume control of an NBA franchise, acting as general manager. The mode has been featured in numerous ''NBA 2K'' games and is often titled Association; the most recent games in the series feature the MyGM and MyLeague modes. In the modes, the player controls virtually all aspects of a team, rather than just playing games with the team. As the player simulates through seasons, they must satisfy the needs of the team's personnel and the owner.<ref>Sarkar, Samit (November 8, 2013). [http://www.polygon.com/2013/11/8/5082266/nba-2k14-ps4-xbox-one-mygm-mode "MyGm mode in next-gen ''NBA 2K14'' forces you to be a people person"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Bertz, Matt (August 19, 2015). [https://www.gameinformer.com/games/nba_2k16/b/playstation4/archive/2015/08/19/50-exciting-changes-coming-to-nba-2k16-s-franchise-modes.aspx "''NBA 2K16'' – 50 Exciting Changes Coming To ''NBA 2K16''{{'}}s Franchise Mode"]. ''[[Game Informer]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Bertz, Matt (September 4, 2015). [https://www.gameinformer.com/games/nba_2k15/b/playstation4/archive/2014/09/04/29-reasons-why-nba-2k15-39-s-mygm-may-be-the-future-of-franchise-modes.aspx "''NBA 2K15'' – 29 Reasons Why ''NBA 2K15''{{'}}s MyGM May Be The Future Of Franchise Modes"]. ''[[Game Informer]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref>

MyTeam mode, which was introduced in ''[[NBA 2K13]]'', focuses on building a team of players and competing against other players' teams online. The player's primary venue for acquiring players for their team is card packs; the player purchases a card pack, which features random items the player can use in the mode, including players. In addition to compiling a select group of players, the player can also customize their team's jerseys and court, among other things. The game mode progressed even further on ''[[NBA 2K19]]'', with a MyTeam tournament between the best Xbox and PS4 players for a prize of $250,000 occurring. Other online-focused modes have also been featured in the series, such as Pro-Am, which focuses on players building a team together with their custom players.<ref>Good, Owen (September 21, 2012). [http://kotaku.com/5945386/nba-2k13s-myteam-means-all-team-sports-have-an-ultimate-team-mode-now "''NBA 2K13''{{'}}s MyTeam Means All Team Sports Have an 'Ultimate Team' Mode Now"]. ''[[Kotaku]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Marchiafava, Jeff (November 1, 2013). [https://www.gameinformer.com/games/nba_2k14/b/playstation4/archive/2013/11/01/new-my-team-features-announced-for-next-gen.aspx "''NBA 2K14'' – New My Team Features Announced For Next-Gen"]. ''[[Game Informer]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Phipps, Brett (August 6, 2015). [https://www.videogamer.com/news/nba-2k16-to-introduce-new-dynamic-cards-in-myteam "''NBA 2K16'' to introduce new Dynamic Cards in MyTeam"]. ''VideoGamer.com''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Pereira, Chris (July 30, 2015). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k16-lets-you-fully-design-a-team-go-online-fo/1100-6429340/ "''NBA 2K16'' Lets You Fully Design a Team, Go Online for 5-on-5 Matches"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Sarkar, Samit (July 31, 2015). [http://www.polygon.com/2015/7/31/9078899/nba-2k16-2k-pro-am-mode-trailer "''NBA 2K16''{{'}}s new 2K Pro-Am mode brings custom team games online"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref>

In addition to regulation NBA games, [[Streetball|street basketball]] has been featured in numerous games in the series. Created players and real players can be used in such modes; additionally, some celebrities have made appearances as playable characters in the series.<ref>Thomas, Aaron (September 26, 2006). [http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/nba-2k7-review/1900-6158733/ "''NBA 2K7'' Review"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref> In more recent games, the street basketball modes are titled Blacktop and MyPark. Blacktop is structured in the typical style of street basketball. MyPark consists of an open area filled with players who can join different games on different courts.<ref>Liebl, Matt (October 1, 2014). [http://www.gamezone.com/news/the-park-returns-in-nba-2k15-as-mypark "The Park returns in ''NBA 2K15'' as MyPARK"]. ''GameZone''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Sarkar, Samit (October 1, 2014). [http://www.polygon.com/2014/10/1/6882325/nba-2k15-trailer-mypark "Prove yourself online in ''NBA 2K15''{{'}}s redesigned street basketball mode, MyPark"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref> Several games in the series feature a mode which allows the player to hold a [[NBA Slam Dunk Contest|slam dunk contest]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/videogames/nba2k8_overview.html |title=''NBA 2K8'' |publisher=[[NBA]] |access-date=January 9, 2017}}</ref>

Several games in the series have featured game modes that are exclusive to that particular game. ''[[NBA 2K11]]'' featured the Jordan Challenge mode, in which players are tasked with recreating some of [[Michael Jordan]]'s most memorable feats, such as scoring 69 points in a single game.<ref name="Michael Jordan mode 1">Good, Owen (July 22, 2010). [http://kotaku.com/5593932/the-ten-games-of-nba-2k11s-jordan-challenge The Ten Games of NBA 2K11's "Jordan Challenge"] "The Ten Games of ''NBA 2K11'''s "Jordan Challenge""]. ''[[Kotaku]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref name="Michael Jordan mode 2">Good, Owen (November 3, 2011). [http://kotaku.com/5610622/jordan-gets-his-own-career-mode-in-nba-2k11 "Jordan Gets His Own Career Mode In ''NBA 2K11''"]. ''[[Kotaku]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref name="Michael Jordan mode 3">Yin-Poole, Wesley (July 22, 2010). [http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/michael-jordan-mode-for-nba-2k11 "Michael Jordan Mode for ''NBA 2K11''"]. ''[[Eurogamer]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref> ''[[NBA 2K12]]'' featured the NBA's Greatest mode, where the player can play with past NBA players, such as [[Kareem Abdul-Jabbar]], [[Julius Erving]], and [[Bill Russell]].<ref name="NBA's Greatest 1">Good, Owen (August 18, 2011). [http://kotaku.com/5832331/nba-2k12-delivers-much-more-than-15-legends-in-an-ensemble-cast-of-greatness "''NBA 2K12'' Delivers Much More than 15 Legends in an Ensemble Cast of Greatness"]. ''[[Kotaku]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref><ref name="NBA's Greatest 2">Ruscher, Wesley (August 24, 2011). [https://www.destructoid.com/going-old-school-with-the-nba-s-greatest-mode-in-nba-2k12-209791.phtml "Going old-school with the NBA's Greatest node in ''NBA 2K12''"]. ''[[Destructoid]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref> The [[PlayStation 3]], [[Xbox 360]], and [[Microsoft Windows]] versions of ''[[NBA 2K14]]'' featured a mode titled Path to Greatness; similar to the Jordan Challenge mode, it focuses on the career of [[LeBron James]].<ref>Sarkar, Samit (September 13, 2013). [http://www.polygon.com/2013/9/13/4724598/nba-2k14-lebron-james-path-to-greatness-mode-preview "Choose LeBron's future in ''NBA 2K14''{{'}}s Path to Greatness mode"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 9, 2017.</ref>

==Games==
{{Video game timeline
| 1999  = ''[[NBA 2K (video game)|NBA 2K]]''
| 2000  = ''[[NBA 2K1]]''
| 2001  = ''[[NBA 2K2]]''
| 2002  = ''[[NBA 2K3]]''
| 2003  = ''[[ESPN NBA Basketball (video game)|ESPN NBA Basketball]]''
| 2004  = ''[[ESPN NBA 2K5]]''
| 2005  = ''[[NBA 2K6]]''
| 2006  = ''[[NBA 2K7]]''
| 2007  = ''[[NBA 2K8]]''
| 2008a = ''NBA 2K Online''
| 2008b = ''[[NBA 2K9]]''
| 2009  = ''[[NBA 2K10]]''
| 2010  = ''[[NBA 2K11]]''
| 2011  = ''[[NBA 2K12]]''
| 2012  = ''[[NBA 2K13]]''
| 2013  = ''[[NBA 2K14]]''
| 2014  = ''[[NBA 2K15]]''
| 2015  = ''[[NBA 2K16]]''
| 2016a = ''[[NBA 2K17]]''
| 2016b = ''NBA 2KVR Experience''
| 2017a = ''[[NBA Playgrounds]]''
| 2017b = ''[[NBA 2K18]]''
| 2018a = ''NBA 2K Online 2''
| 2018b = ''[[NBA 2K19]]''
| 2018c = ''[[NBA 2K Playgrounds 2]]''
| 2018d = ''[[NBA 2K Mobile]]''
| 2019  = ''[[NBA 2K20]]''
| 2020  = ''[[NBA 2K21]]''
| 2021  = ''[[NBA 2K22]]''
| 2022  = ''[[NBA 2K23]]''
| 2023a = ''[[NBA 2K24]]''
| 2023b = ''NBA 2K24 MyTEAM Mobile''
| 2024a = ''[[NBA 2K25]]''
| 2024b = ''NBA 2K25 MyTEAM Mobile''
| 2025a = ''NBA 2K All Star''
| 2025b = ''[[NBA 2K26]]''}}
All twenty-four of the series main installments have been developed by [[Visual Concepts]]. The first six games were published by [[Sega Sports]], before the company sold Visual Concepts to [[Take Two Interactive]], thus forming [[2K Sports]].

===1990s===
====''NBA 2K''====
{{main|NBA 2K (video game)}}
The original ''NBA 2K'' game was initially released in November 1999 for the [[Dreamcast]], featuring [[Allen Iverson]] of the Philadelphia 76ers as the cover athlete. The first four games in the ''NBA 2K'' series feature commentary from fictional announcers Bob Steele and Rod West, portrayed by [[Bob Fitzgerald]] and Rod Brooks, respectively.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=McNamara |first1=Andy |last2=Anderson |first2=Paul |last3=Reiner |first3=Andrew |date=January 24, 2000 |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=4360 |title=''NBA 2K'' |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000711103114/http://www.gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=4360 |archive-date=July 11, 2000 |url-status=dead |access-date=May 8, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=MacDonald |first=Ryan |date=November 8, 1999 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/nba-2k-review/1900-2540432/ |title=''NBA 2K'' Review |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=May 8, 2015}}</ref>

===2000s===

====''NBA 2K1''====
{{main|NBA 2K1}}
''NBA 2K1'' was initially released in October 2000 for the Dreamcast. Allen Iverson of the Philadelphia 76ers returns as the cover athlete. ''NBA 2K1'', among other things, introduces a mode which focuses on [[streetball|street basketball]], and a mode which allows the player to act as the general manager of a team; most of the game's successors feature variations of the two modes.<ref>{{cite web |last=Ahmed |first=Shahed |date=October 31, 2000 |title=''NBA 2K1'' Review |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/nba-2k1-review/1900-2648131/ |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=May 8, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Justice |first=Brandon |date=November 7, 2000 |title=''NBA2K1'' |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2000/11/08/nba2k1 |website=[[IGN]] |access-date=May 8, 2015}}</ref> This was also the first game in the series to allow for online play, allowing for 8 people to play together online.<ref>[https://www.ign.com/games/nba-2k1 ''NBA 2K1'']. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved October 6, 2019.</ref>

====''NBA 2K2''====
{{main|NBA 2K2}}
''NBA 2K2'' was released in late 2001 and early 2002 for Dreamcast, [[PlayStation 2]], [[Xbox (console)|Xbox]], and [[GameCube]]. Allen Iverson again returned as the cover athlete. In addition to the regular players and teams from the [[2001–02 NBA season]], ''NBA 2K2'' features several past players and their respective teams, including [[Bill Russell]], [[Julius Erving]], [[Magic Johnson]], and [[Larry Bird]]. ''NBA 2K2'' is the first game in the series to be released for multiple platforms, and the last to be released for Dreamcast.<ref>{{cite web |last=Marriott |first=Scott Alan |url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=34933 |title=''NBA 2K2'' (DC) - Overview |publisher=[[AllGame]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141114165237/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=34933 |archive-date=November 14, 2014 |url-status=dead |access-date=May 8, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Ahmed |first=Shahed |date=October 25, 2001 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/nba-2k2-review/1900-2820299/ |title=''NBA 2K2'' Review (DC) |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=May 9, 2015}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K3''====
{{main|NBA 2K3}}
''NBA 2K3'' was initially released in October 2002 for PlayStation 2, Xbox, and GameCube. It is the second and final time of the game in the series to be released for the GameCube. Allen Iverson of the 76ers made his fourth appearance as the cover athlete.<ref>David, Kushner (July 25, 2002). [http://mobile.nytimes.com/2002/07/25/technology/sports-fantasy-is-catching-up-with-reality.html?referer= "Sports Fantasy Is Catching Up With Reality"]. ''[[The New York Times]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://ign.com/games/nba-2k3/gcn-17015 ''NBA 2K3'']. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

====''ESPN NBA Basketball'' (''NBA 2K4'')====
{{main|ESPN NBA Basketball (video game)}}
''ESPN NBA Basketball'' was released in October and November 2003 for the PlayStation 2 and Xbox consoles. Allen Iverson made his fifth and final appearance as the cover athlete. The game introduces a 24/7 mode, a [[career mode]] in which the player can create a customizable character and use them to compete in basketball tournaments and other competitions. Online game modes are also present, and each player has a unique facial design, also a first. The game features a commentary team consisting of [[Bob Fitzgerald]] and [[Tom Tolbert]]; [[Kevin Frazier]] hosts pre-game shows.<ref>{{cite web |last=Navarro |first=Alex |date=October 1, 2006 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/espn-nba-basketball-preview/1100-6076243/ |title=''ESPN NBA Basketball'' Preview |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=August 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Bailey |first=Andy |date=October 17, 2011 |url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/895907-ranking-the-greatest-nba-video-game-cover-athletes/page/10 |title=Ranking the Greatest ''NBA'' Video Game Covers (Page 10) |website=[[Bleacher Report]] |access-date=August 23, 2015}}</ref> It is the only game in the series to not feature "2K4" in the title.

====''ESPN NBA 2K5''====
{{main|ESPN NBA 2K5}}
''ESPN NBA 2K5'' was first released in September 2004 for PlayStation 2 and Xbox. It is the last game in the series to be published by Sega Sports before the company sold Visual Concepts to Take Two Interactive, forming 2K Sports. [[Ben Wallace (basketball)|Ben Wallace]] of the Detroit Pistons replaced Iverson as the cover athlete. It is the third and final in the series to feature ESPN branding. The game features [[Stuart Scott]] as a presenter, [[Bob Fitzgerald]] as a play-by-play commentator, [[Bill Walton]] as a second commentator, [[Michele Tafoya]] as a sideline reporter.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/articles/ espn nba-2k5-first-impression/1100-6107274/ "''ESPN NBA 2k5'' First Impression"] (September 14, 2004). ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://ign.com/articles/2004/09/14/espn-nba-2k5-the-preview "''ESPN NBA 2K5'': The Preview"] (September 14, 2004). ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

====''NBA 2K6''====
{{main|NBA 2K6}}
''NBA 2K6'' was initially released in September 2005 for PlayStation 2, Xbox, and, for the first time, [[Xbox 360]]. It is the first game in the series to be published by 2K Sports. [[Shaquille O'Neal]] of the Miami Heat serves as the game's cover athlete; he was also involved in some of the game's [[motion capture]] development.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamezone.com/originals/shaq-on-nba-2k6-cover |title=Shaq On ''NBA 2K6'' Cover |publisher=GameZone |date=August 15, 2005 |access-date=January 4, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Surette |first=Tim |date=August 15, 2005 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k6-gets-diesel-powered/1100-6131078/ |title=''NBA 2K6'' gets Diesel-powered |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=January 4, 2017}}</ref> In ''NBA 2K6'', [[Kevin Harlan]] is the play-by-play commentator, [[Kenny Smith]] is the color commentator, and [[Craig Sager]] is the sideline reporter.<ref>{{cite web |last=Hobbs |first=Ronnie |date=November 25, 2005 |url=http://www.gamezone.com/reviews/nba_2k6_360_review |title=''NBA 2K6'' - 360 - Review |publisher=GameZone |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081209081605/http://xbox360.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r26725.htm |archive-date=December 9, 2008 |url-status=live |access-date=May 2, 2016}}</ref> The next two installments in the series feature the same team.

====''NBA 2K7''====
{{main|NBA 2K7}}
''NBA 2K7'' was initially released in September 2006 for the PlayStation 2, [[PlayStation 3]], Xbox, and Xbox 360. It is the first game in the series to be released for the PlayStation 3 and the last to be released for the original Xbox. O'Neal returns as the cover athlete.<ref>{{cite web |last=Surette |first=Tim |date=August 15, 2006 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/oneal-shaqs-up-nba-2k7/1100-6155781/ |title=O'Neal Shaqs up ''NBA 2K7'' |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=January 4, 2017}}</ref> ''NBA 2K7'' is the first game in the series to feature a licensed soundtrack; the previous games featured music produced exclusively for the games. The soundtrack, which was compiled by [[Dan the Automator]], consists of 13 songs, and was also released in [[compact disc|CD]] format as ''[[Dan the Automator Presents 2K7]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/57470/automator-puts-bounce-into-star-studded-2k7-cd |title=Automator Puts Bounce Into Star-Studded ''2K7'' CD |magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] |date=August 21, 2006 |access-date=January 4, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=IGN Music |date=October 3, 2006 |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2006/10/03/nba-2k7s-rap-attack |title=''NBA 2K7''{{'}}s Rap Attack |website=[[IGN]] |access-date=January 4, 2017}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K8''====
{{main|NBA 2K8}}
''NBA 2K8'' was initially released in October 2007 for PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. [[Chris Paul]] is the game's cover athlete.<ref>{{cite web |last=Geddes |first=Ryan |date=July 19, 2007 |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/07/19/chris-paul-gets-nba-2k8-cover |title=Chris Paul Gets ''NBA 2K8'' Cover |website=[[IGN]] |access-date=August 21, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=GameSpot staff |date=July 19, 2007 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/paul-dunks-nba-2k8-cover/1100-6175348/ |title=Paul dunks ''NBA 2K8'' cover |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=August 21, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamezone.com/news/chris_paul_named_cover_athlete_for_nba_2k8 |title=Chris Paul Named Cover Athlete for ''NBA® 2K8'' |publisher=GameZone |date=July 19, 2007 |access-date=August 21, 2015}}</ref> The game introduces the [[Slam Dunk Contest]] game mode.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/videogames/nba2k8_overview.html |title=''NBA 2K8'' |publisher=[[NBA]] |access-date=June 11, 2015}}</ref> The soundtrack consists of 23 licensed songs.<ref>{{cite web |author=IGN Music |date=September 24, 2007 |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/09/24/nba-2k8-soundtrack-mixes-rap-and-rock |title=''NBA 2K8'' Soundtrack Mixes Rap And Rock |website=IGN |access-date=June 9, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=GameSpot staff |date=September 24, 2007 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/j-dilla-headlines-nba-2k8-soundtrack/1100-6179807/ |title=J Dilla headlines ''NBA 2K8'' soundtrack |website=GameSpot |access-date=August 21, 2015}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K Online''====
In June 2008, 2K Sports announced that they were partnering with [[Tencent]] to release an online version of ''NBA 2K'' for the Chinese market. Since then the game has expanded to other markets in Asia.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/06/23/2k-sports-partners-with-tencent-to-bring-nba-2k-online-to-asia|title=2K Sports Partners with Tencent to Bring ''NBA 2K'' Online to Asia|website=IGN|date=June 23, 2009 |access-date=January 22, 2018}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K9''====
{{main|NBA 2K9}}
''NBA 2K9'' was initially released in October 2008 for PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and, for the first time in the series, [[Microsoft Windows]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Sarkar |first=Samit |date=July 10, 2008 |url=http://www.destructoid.com/nba-2k9-s-living-rosters-and-release-date-s--106717.phtml |title=''NBA 2K9''{{'}}s Living Rosters and release date(s) |website=Destructoid |access-date=August 8, 2015}}</ref> [[Kevin Garnett]] is featured as the game's cover athlete.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sarkar |first=Samit |date=June 6, 2008 |url=http://www.destructoid.com/celtics-kevin-garnett-named-nba-2k9-cover-athlete-89515.phtml |title=Celtics' Kevin Garnett named ''NBA 2K9'' cover athlete |website=[[Destructoid]] |access-date=August 7, 2015 |archive-date=September 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923223228/http://www.destructoid.com/celtics-kevin-garnett-named-nba-2k9-cover-athlete-89515.phtml |url-status=dead }}</ref> The commentary team consists of Harlan and [[Clark Kellogg]], with [[Cheryl Miller]] serving as sideline reporter.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nba.com/videogames/nba2k9_overview_australia.html |title=''NBA 2K9'' |publisher=[[NBA|NBA Australia]] |access-date=June 9, 2015}}</ref> The soundtrack consists of 24 licensed songs and one original song.<ref>{{cite web |author=IGN Music |date=October 6, 2008 |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2008/10/06/nba-2k9-soundtrack-revealed |title=''NBA 2K9'' Soundtrack Revealed |website=IGN |access-date=June 9, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Sines |first=Shawn |date=June 10, 2008 |url=http://www.1up.com/news/nba-2k9-soundtrack-revealed |title=''NBA 2K9'' Soundtrack Revealed |website=[[1UP.com]] |access-date=October 26, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305142448/http://www.1up.com/news/nba-2k9-soundtrack-revealed |archive-date=March 5, 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

====''NBA 2K10''====
{{main|NBA 2K10}}
''NBA 2K10'' was initially released in October 2009 for PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, [[PlayStation Portable]] (a first), Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, and [[Wii|Nintendo Wii]] (also a first). It is the first game since ''NBA 2K3'' to be released on a Nintendo platform. Kobe Bryant(LAL) is the game's cover athlete.<ref>[http://ign.com/articles/2009/06/05/kobe-bryant-named-nba-2k10-cover-athlete "Kobe Bryant Named ''NBA 2K10'' Cover Athlete"]. ''[[IGN]]'' (June 5, 2009). Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> Fans were able to vote for which image they favored out of four to be used on the cover.<ref>Sarkar, Samit (June 21, 2009). [https://www.destructoid.com/fan-voting-selects-kobe-jersey-tugging-shot-for-nba-2k10-box-136974.phtml "Fan voting selects Kobe jersey-tugging shot for ''NBA 2K10'' box"]. ''[[Destructoid]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> The game features a reincarnated career mode titled MyPlayer, which would become a staple of the future games in the series, later being retitled as MyCareer.<ref>Anderson, Luke (September 25, 2009). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k10-hands-on/1100-6230470/ "''NBA 2K10'': Hands-On"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> Harlan and Kellogg return as commentators, while [[Doris Burke]] replaces Miller as sideline reporter.<ref>Razak, Matthew (August 29, 2009). [https://www.destructoid.com/nba-2k10-commentary-to-update-throughout-the-season-146643.phtml "''NBA 2K10'' commentary to update throughout the season"]. ''[[Destructoid]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> The licensed soundtrack consists of 30 songs.<ref>IGN staff (September 3, 2009). [http://ign.com/articles/2009/09/03/2k-sports-celebrates-10th-anniversary-of-nba-2k-franchise-with-diverse-music-soundtrack-for-nba-2k10 "2K Sports Celebrates 10th Anniversary Of ''NBA 2K'' Franchise With Diverse Music Soundtrack For ''NBA 2K10''"]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> In addition to the standard release, a limited edition version of the game, titled ''NBA 2K10: Anniversary Edition'', was also released; it included several bonuses, such as a Bryant figurine manufactured by [[McFarlane Toys]].<ref>Sarkar, Samit (August 5, 2009). [https://www.destructoid.com/nba-2k10-anniversary-edition-comes-in-a-big-frickin-box-142964.phtml "''NBA 2K10'' Anniversary Edition comes in a big frickin' box"]. ''[[Destructoid]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://www.gamezone.com/news/2k_sports_announces_nba_2k10_anniversary_edition "2K Sports Announces ''NBA 2K10'': Anniversary Edition"] (July 1, 2009). ''GameZone''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> A demo of sorts was released on [[PlayStation Network]] and [[Xbox Live]] prior to the release of the main game in August 2009, titled ''NBA 2K10 Draft Combine''. It features [[Derrick Rose]] as its cover athlete and allows the player to compete in activities related to the main game's MyPlayer mode.<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k10-draft-combine-2ks-dlc-gamble/1100-6233717/ "''NBA 2K10 ''Draft Combine: 2K's DLC Gamble"] (August 3, 2009). ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>IGN staff (August 11, 2009). [http://ign.com/articles/2009/08/11/2k-sports-signs-the-chicago-bulls-derrick-rose-as-spokesman-for-the-nba-2k10-draft-combine "2K Sports Signs The Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose As Spokesman For ''NBA 2K10'': Draft Combine"]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

=== 2010s ===
==== ''NBA 2K11'' ====
{{main|NBA 2K11}}
''NBA 2K11'' was released in October 2010 for PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, and Microsoft Windows. [[Michael Jordan]] is the game's cover athlete, and the game features several modes focusing on Jordan.<ref>Sarkar, Samit (June 2, 2010). [https://www.destructoid.com/michael-jordan-appearing-on-nba-2k11-cover-175303.phtml "Michael Jordan appearing on ''NBA 2K11'' cover"]. ''[[Destructoid]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> One such mode is "The Jordan Challenge", a mode in which the player must recreate ten of Jordan's most memorable career achievements, such as scoring 69 points in a game.<ref name="Michael Jordan mode 1"/><ref name="Michael Jordan mode 2"/><ref name="Michael Jordan mode 3"/> ''NBA 2K11'' also introduces historic NBA teams and players.<ref>Good, Owen (October 6, 2010). [http://kotaku.com/5656774/review-nba-2k11 "Review: ''NBA 2K11''"]. ''[[Kotaku]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> The game features the same presenters as ''NBA 2K10''. The soundtrack consists of 27 licensed songs.<ref>Kato, Matthew (July 29, 2010). [https://gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2010/07/29/nba-2k11-soundtrack.aspx "''NBA 2K11'' Soundtrack Revealed"]. ''[[Game Informer]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://ign.com/articles/2010/07/29/2k-sports-compiles-most-powerful-hoops-soundtrack-ever-for-nba-2k11 "''NBA 2K11'' Compiles Most Powerful Hoops Soundtrack Ever For ''NBA 2K11''"]. ''[[IGN]]'' (July 29, 2010). Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

====''NBA 2K12''====
{{main|NBA 2K12}}
''NBA 2K12'' was released in October 2011 for PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, Microsoft Windows, and, for the first time, [[iOS]].<ref>North, Dale (October 4, 2011). [https://www.destructoid.com/nba-2k12-bounces-to-ipad-iphone-and-ipod-touch-212939.phtml "''NBA 2K12'' bounces to iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch"]. ''[[Destructoid]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> This was the final game to be released for the PlayStation 2. With three different covers, ''NBA 2K12'' is the first game in the series to feature multiple cover athletes. The cover athletes are [[Magic Johnson]], [[Larry Bird]], and Michael Jordan (for the second straight year).<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2011/07/21/magic-and-bird-join-jordan-as-nba-2k12-cover-athletes.aspx|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130102192142/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2011/07/21/magic-and-bird-join-jordan-as-nba-2k12-cover-athletes.aspx|url-status=live|archive-date=January 2, 2013|title=Magic And Bird Join Jordan As ''NBA 2K12'' Cover Athletes|author=Bertz, Matt|magazine=[[Game Informer]] |date=July 21, 2011|access-date=July 20, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/6790595/michael-jordan-magic-johnson-larry-bird-featured-nba-2k12-game-cover|title=''NBA 2K12'' game plans three covers| work=[[ESPN]]|date=July 21, 2011|agency=[[Associated Press]]|access-date=July 21, 2011|location=[[Bristol, Connecticut]]}}</ref> The game introduces the "NBA's Greatest" mode, where players use a wide range of historic players and teams.<ref name="NBA's Greatest 1"/><ref name="NBA's Greatest 2"/> [[Steve Kerr]] joins Harlan and Kellogg in the commentary booth, and Burke returns as sideline reporter. The same team is present in the next three games in the series. A demo of ''NBA 2K12'' was released prior to the release of the main game.<ref>Good, Owen (September 16, 2016). [http://kotaku.com/5841207/nba-2k12-demo-arrives-next-week "''NBA 2K12'' Demo Arrives Next Week"]. ''[[Kotaku]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> The soundtrack consists of 28 licensed songs. Regarding the soundtrack, a contest was held, the winners of which would contribute to the soundtrack with an original song.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ign.com/articles/2011/08/11/2k-sports-unveils-nba-2k12-soundtrack |title=2K Sports Unveils ''NBA 2K12'' Soundtrack |author=IGN staff |date=August 11, 2011 |work=[[IGN]] |access-date=January 4, 2017}}</ref><ref>Chester, Nick (August 12, 2011). [https://www.destructoid.com/eminem-travis-barker-grace-nba-2k12-soundtrack-208625.phtml "Eminem, Travis Barker grace ''NBA 2K12'' soundtrack"]. ''[[Destructoid]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

====''NBA 2K13''====
{{main|NBA 2K13}}
''NBA 2K13'' was initially released in September/October 2012 for PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, iOS, [[Android (operating system)|Android]], and Microsoft Windows. It was the final game to be released on the PlayStation Portable and Wii. A version for [[Wii U]] was released as a launch title in November 2012 and in PAL regions the following month. The game's cover features [[Blake Griffin]], [[Kevin Durant]], and [[Derrick Rose]].<ref>Wood, Donald (June 26, 2012). [http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1236233-nba-2k13-cover-kevin-durant-derrick-rose-and-blake-griffin-grace-cover "''NBA 2K13'' Cover: Kevin Durant, Derrick Rose and Blake Griffin Grace Cover"]. ''[[Bleacher Report]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> MyTeam makes its debut in ''NBA 2K13'', the mode focuses on building your very own fantasy team and compete against other people. [[Jay Z]] is credited as executive producer of the game; among other things, he curated the soundtrack, which consists of 24 songs.<ref>Sarkar, Samit (July 31, 2012). [http://www.polygon.com/gaming/2012/7/31/3207265/nba-2k13-jay-z-executive-producer "''NBA 2K13'' being executive-produced by Jay-Z"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>Greenwood, David (July 31, 2012). [http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/480678/jay-z-scores-u2-kanye-west-for-nba-2k13-soundtrack "Jay-Z Scores U2, Kanye West for ''NBA 2K13'' Soundtrack"]. ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

====''NBA 2K14''====
{{main|NBA 2K14}}
''NBA 2K14'' was initially released in October and November 2013 for PlayStation 3, [[PlayStation 4]], Xbox 360, [[Xbox One]], Microsoft Windows, iOS, and Android. [[LeBron James]] serves as cover athlete; he also curated the soundtrack, which features 20 licensed songs.<ref>Emerick, Peter (July 24, 2013). [http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1714317-ranking-lebron-james-nba-2k14-cover-with-each-in-nba-2k-series "Ranking LeBron James' ''NBA 2K14'' Cover with Each in ''NBA 2K'' Series"]. ''[[Bleacher Report]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>Eddie, Makuch (July 26, 2013). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k14-soundtrack-revealed/1100-6412121/ "''NBA 2K14'' soundtrack revealed"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> ''NBA 2K14'' introduces [[EuroLeague]] teams.<ref>Devine, Dan (July 2, 2013). [https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nba-ball-dont-lie/nba-2k14-feature-14-euroleague-teams-neat-first-150251072.html "''NBA 2K14'' will feature 14 Euroleague teams, which is a neat first"]. ''[[Yahoo! Sports]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> ''NBA 2K14'' was also the first year they introduced "The Park" as an additional mode to take your MyPlayer to the streets along with other users and play with them on a variety of courts.

====''NBA 2K15''====
{{main|NBA 2K15}}
''NBA 2K15'' was initially released in October 2014 for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Android, and iOS. Kevin Durant(OKC) serves as the cover athlete.<ref>Witmer, David (July 15, 2014). [http://ign.com/articles/2014/07/15/nba-2k15-cover-art-revealed "''NBA 2K15'' Cover Art Revealed"]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> ''NBA 2K15'' introduces pre-game shows presented by [[Ernie Johnson, Jr.|Ernie Johnson]] and [[Shaquille O'Neal]].<ref>Pereira, Chris (August 25, 2014). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k15s-new-gameplay-trailer-shows-shaq-in-a-sui/1100-6421906/ "''NBA 2K15''{{'}}s New Gameplay Trailer Shows Shaw in a Suit, LeBron in a Cavs Jersey"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> One new feature concerns player creation; the player is now able to scan their own face into the game.<ref>S. Good, Owen (October 7, 2014). [http://www.polygon.com/2014/10/7/6939155/nba-2k15-face-scan-glitch-disaster-impossible "''NBA 2K15''{{'}}s face scanning feature is a tedious, painful disaster"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> The soundtrack, which consists of 27 licensed songs, was curated by [[Pharrell Williams]].<ref>Williams, Katie (August 13, 2014). [http://ign.com/articles/2014/08/13/pharrell-williams-nba-2k15-soundtrack-revealed "Pharrell Willians' ''NBA 2K15'' Soundtrack Revealed"]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

====''NBA 2K16''====
{{main|NBA 2K16}}
''NBA 2K16'' was released worldwide on September 29, 2015, for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows. A version for Android and iOS was released on October 14, 2015. The game features seven different covers with eight cover athletes: Stephen Curry, James Harden, Anthony Davis, Michael Jordan, Pau Gasol and Marc Gasol, Dennis Schröder, and Tony Parker.<ref>Makuch, Eddie (June 5, 2015). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/don-t-like-steph-curry-nba-2k16-comes-with-swappab/1100-6427843/ "Don't Like Steph Curry? ''NBA 2K16'' Comes With Swappable Covers"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>Sarkar, Samit (June 24, 2015). [http://www.polygon.com/2015/6/24/8838769/nba-2k16-special-edition-michael-jordan "''NBA 2K16'' Special Edition brings back Michael Jordan on the cover"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://www.operationsports.com/news/849040/french-nba-2k16-cover-features-tony-parker-confirms-25-euroleague-teams/ "French ''NBA 2K16'' Cover Features Tony Parker, Confirms 25 Euroleague Teams"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118225537/http://www.operationsports.com/news/849040/french-nba-2k16-cover-features-tony-parker-confirms-25-euroleague-teams/ |date=November 18, 2015 }} (August 4, 2015). ''Operation Sports''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://www.nba.com/hawks/features/dennis-schroder-cover-nba-2k16-germany "Dennis Schröder On Cover Of ''NBA 2K16'' In Germany"] (August 5, 2015). ''NBA.com''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://www.foxsports.com/nba/story/nba-2k16-chicago-bulls-memphis-grizzlies-pau-gasol-marc-gasol-spanish-cover-081815 "Brothers Marc and Pau Gasol to star on Spanish cover of ''NBA 2K16''"] (August 18, 2015). ''FOX Sports''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> ''NBA 2K16''{{'}}s mid-game commentary team remains the same, except Kerr has been replaced by [[Greg Anthony]]. The pre-game, halftime, and post-game shows now feature the returning Kenny Smith, in addition to Johnson and O'Neal.<ref>Lelinwalla, Mark (September 10, 2015). [http://www.techtimes.com/articles/83752/20150910/new-nba-2k16-trailer-showcases-tnt-broadcast-booths-commentary-shaq.htm "New ''NBA 2K16'' Trailer Showcases TNT Broadcast Booth's Commentary With Shaq And Kenny Smith"]. ''Tech Times''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>Sarkar, Samit (September 10, 2015). [http://www.polygon.com/2015/9/10/9307851/nba-2k16-trailer-commentary-kenny-smith-greg-anthony-tnt "''NBA 2K16''{{'}}s broadcast team gets bigger and a bit weirder"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> Director [[Spike Lee]] worked on the MyCareer mode.<ref>Phillips, Tom (June 5, 2015). [http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2015-06-05-spike-lee-to-direct-nba-2k16-career-mode "Spike Lee to direct ''NBA 2K16'' career mode"]. ''[[Eurogamer]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> The soundtrack, which features 50 songs, was curated by [[DJ Khaled]], [[DJ Premier]], and [[DJ Mustard]].<ref>Nunneley, Stephany (July 24, 2015). [http://www.vg247.com/2015/07/24/heres-the-official-nba-2k16-track-list-curated-by-dj-mustard-dj-khaled-and-dj-premier/ "Get your groove on with the official ''NBA 2K16'' soundtrack"]. ''[[VG247]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> A [[companion app]] featuring [[Paul George]] and developed by [[Cat Daddy Games]] was released alongside the game.<ref>Hotchkiss, Wheat (September 16, 2015). [http://www.nba.com/pacers/paul-george-named-cover-athlete-nba-2k16-mobile-companion-app "Paul George Named Cover Athlete for ''NBA 2K16'' Mobile Companion App"]. ''NBA.com/Pacers''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

====''NBA 2K17''====
{{main|NBA 2K17}}
''NBA 2K17'' was released worldwide in September 2016 for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Android, and iOS.<ref>Carpenter, Nicole (June 2, 2016). [http://ign.com/articles/2016/06/02/nba-2k17-cover-star-release-date-announced "''NBA 2K17'' Cover Star, Release Date Announced"]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref><ref>Tylwalk, Nick (September 23, 2016). [http://www.gamezebo.com/2016/09/26/nba-2k17-review-great-game-weak-handle/ "''NBA 2K17'' Review: Great Game, Weak Handle"]. ''[[Gamezebo]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> The game features four different cover athletes, Paul George, Kobe Bryant, [[Danilo Gallinari]], and Pau Gasol.<ref>Otero, Jose (August 19, 2016). [http://ign.com/articles/2016/08/19/nba-2k17-and-the-quest-to-make-a-more-authentic-basketball-game "''NBA 2K17'' And The Quest To Make A More Authentic Basketball Game"]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> ''NBA 2K17'' still features a three-person commentary team and one sideline reporter, but the personnel has been overhauled. Seven different commentators are present, namely [[Kevin Harlan]], [[Clark Kellogg]], [[Greg Anthony]], [[Brent Barry]], [[Chris Webber]], and [[Steve Smith (basketball)|Steve Smith]], while [[David Aldridge]] replaces [[Doris Burke|Burke]] as sideline reporter. The pre-game, halftime, and post-game presentation trio remains unchanged.<ref>Kato, Matthew (September 8, 2016). [https://www.gameinformer.com/games/nba_2k17/b/playstation4/archive/2016/09/08/nba-2k17-expands-its-commentary-team.aspx "''NBA 2K17'' — Expanding The Commentary Team"]. ''[[Game Informer]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> The game's soundtrack was compiled by [[Michael B. Jordan]], [[Grimes (musician)|Grimes]], [[Imagine Dragons]], and [[Noah "40" Shebib|Noah Shebib]], and features 50 songs.<ref>Makuch, Eddie (August 12, 2016). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k17-soundtrack-revealed/1100-6442593/ "''NBA 2K17'' Soundtrack Revealed"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> A demo of sorts, titled ''The Prelude'', was released prior to the release of the main game.<ref>Makuch, Eddie (August 26, 2016). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k17-is-doing-something-the-franchise-has-neve/1100-6443052/ "''NBA 2K17'' Is Doing Something the Franchise Has Never Done Before"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> A companion app featuring [[Karl-Anthony Towns]] was also released.<ref>[http://www.foxsports.com/north/story/minnesota-timberwolves-karl-anthony-towns-nba-2k17-082416 "Wolves' Towns to headline ''NBA 2K17'' companion app"]. ''Fox Sports'' (August 24, 2016). Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref>

====''NBA 2KVR Experience''====
On November 22, 2016, a [[virtual reality]] ''NBA 2K'' title was released. Titled ''NBA 2KVR Experience'', the game is a collection of basketball mini-games and is not part of the main series, but a spin-off title. It is available for [[PlayStation VR]], [[HTC Vive]], [[Oculus Rift]], and [[Samsung Gear VR]] and the user plays as [[LeBron James]].<ref>Pereira, Chris (November 21, 2016). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/a-standalone-nba-2k-vr-game-arrives-this-week/1100-6445619/ "A Standalone ''NBA 2KVR'' Game Arrives This Week"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved November 22, 2016.</ref><ref>Andrews, Malika (November 30, 2016). [https://www.si.com/tech-media/2016/11/30/nba-2kvr-experience-fans-shooting-competitions "''NBA 2K VR Experience'' puts fans on the court for shooting competitions"]. ''[[Sports Illustrated]]''. Retrieved January 4, 2017.</ref> This title uses [[Unreal Engine 4]].

====''NBA Playgrounds''====
{{main|NBA Playgrounds}}
''NBA Playgrounds'' was released on May 9, 2017.

====''NBA 2K18''====
{{main|NBA 2K18}}
''NBA 2K18'' was released in September 2017. It is the first game in the series to be released for the [[Nintendo Switch]];<ref>Nunneley, Stephany (January 13, 2017). [https://www.vg247.com/2017/01/13/nba-2k18-announced-for-nintendo-switch-releases-in-september/ "''NBA 2K18'' announced for Nintendo Switch, releases in September"]. ''[[VG247]]''. Retrieved February 11, 2017.</ref><ref>Dornbush, Jonathon (January 12, 2017). [http://ign.com/articles/2017/01/13/nba-2k18-confirmed-for-nintendo-switch "''NBA 2K18'' Confirmed For Nintendo Switch"]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved February 11, 2017.</ref><ref>Sarkar, Samit (January 13, 2017). [http://www.polygon.com/2017/1/13/14269922/nintendo-switch-sports-games-nba-2k18-fifa-steep-ea-2k-ubisoft "How will the Nintendo Switch fare with sports games?"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved February 11, 2017.</ref> it was also released for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Android, iOS, and Microsoft Windows. [[Kyrie Irving]] is the cover athlete.<ref>Makuch, Eddie (June 1, 2017). [https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k18-cover-star-revealed-and-its-a-great-timel/1100-6450474/ "''NBA 2K18'' Cover Star Revealed, And It's A Great, Timely Choice"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved June 1, 2017.</ref><ref>S. Good, Owen (June 1, 2017). [https://www.polygon.com/2017/6/1/15722134/nba-2k18-cover-athlete-kyrie-irving "''NBA 2K18'' taps Cleveland’s Kyrie Irving for cover fame"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved June 1, 2017.</ref> The Legend Edition/Legend Edition Gold versions of the game, which include various physical and digital extras, features Shaquille O'Neal as the cover athlete.<ref>Porter, Matt (May 8, 2017). [http://ign.com/articles/2017/05/08/nba-2k18-release-date-announced-shaq-on-special-edition-cover "''NBA 2K18'' Release Date Announced, Shaq On Special Edition Cover"]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved May 9, 2017.</ref><ref>S. Good, Owen (May 8, 2017). [https://www.polygon.com/2017/5/8/15577326/nba-2k18-launch-date-cover-shaq-big-aristotle-shaq-diesel-shaq-fu-bling-bling-superman-deputy "''NBA 2K18'' announces launch date, celebrates Shaq on special cover"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170508165508/https://www.polygon.com/platform/amp/2017/5/8/15577326/nba-2k18-launch-date-cover-shaq-big-aristotle-shaq-diesel-shaq-fu-bling-bling-superman-deputy |date=May 8, 2017 }}. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved May 9, 2017.</ref><ref>Alex, Newhouse (May 8, 2017). [https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k18-special-edition-is-all-about-shaq/1100-6449849/ "''NBA 2K18'' Special Edition Is All About Shaq"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved May 10, 2017.</ref> The Canadian version of the game features [[DeMar DeRozan]] of the [[Toronto Raptors]] as its cover athlete.<ref>Duffy, Thomas (July 6, 2017). [http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2720139-demar-derozan-featured-on-canada-edition-cover-of-nba-2k18 "DeMar DeRozan Featured on Canadian-Edition Cover of ''NBA 2K18''"]. ''[[Bleacher Report]]''. Retrieved July 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Newhouse, Alex (July 6, 2017). [https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k18-has-a-different-cover-athlete-in-canada-f/1100-6451498/ "''NBA 2K18'' Has A Different Cover Athlete In Canada For The First Time Ever"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved July 7, 2017.</ref> The Nike Connect Special Edition for the game features [[Kevin Durant]] of the [[Golden State Warriors]] as the cover.<ref name="auto">{{Cite tweet | user=ronnie2k | number=939298390160031744 | title=The #NBA2K18 @nikebasketball Connect Special Edition featuring my guy @KDTrey5 on the cover...}}</ref>The Neighborhood makes its debut in ''NBA 2K18''. The game's soundtrack consists of 49 licensed songs.<ref>Pereira, Chris (July 21, 2017). [https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k18-soundtrack-revealed/1100-6451885/ "''NBA 2K18'' Soundtrack Revealed"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved July 22, 2017.</ref> Kobe Bryant and Kevin Garnett appear as guest commentators.<ref>Newhouse, Alex (August 29, 2017). [https://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k18-has-kevin-garnett-and-kobe-bryant-as-gues/1100-6452922/ "''NBA 2K18'' Has Kevin Garnett And Kobe Bryant As Guest Commentators; Check Out New Trailer"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved August 30, 2017.</ref> ''NBA 2K18'' adds seventeen new classic teams as well as an 'All-Time Team' for each franchise.<ref>Chavez, Chris (August 11, 2017). [https://www.si.com/nba/2017/08/11/nba-2k18-all-time-teams-list "''NBA 2K18'' To Feature All-Time Teams For All 30 Franchises"]. ''[[Sports Illustrated]]''. Retrieved August 12, 2017.</ref><ref>Mazique, Brian (August 16, 2017). [https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianmazique/2017/08/16/nba-2k18-classic-teams-tracker-counting-down-the-16-new-historic-squads/#7cfb46a04427 "''NBA 2K18'' Classic Teams: Complete List Of The New Squads Coming To The Game"]. ''[[Forbes]]''. Retrieved September 3, 2017.</ref>
This was also the last game to be released for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.

====''NBA 2K Online 2''====
''NBA 2K Online 2'' is the second release of the title focusing on the Asian market.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20120625005781/en/NBA-2K-Online-Free-To-Play-Game-Opens-Tencent|title=''NBA 2K'' Online Free-To-Play Game Opens on Tencent Portal in China|access-date=October 19, 2018|language=en}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K19''====
{{main|NBA 2K19}}
''NBA 2K19'' was released on September 11, 2018, while the 20th Anniversary Edition (which was one year away), featuring the cover athlete [[LeBron James]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianmazique/2018/06/05/lebron-james-20th-anniversary-edition-and-every-nba-2k-cover-ever-created/#2c5469a445c0|date=June 5, 2018|title=LeBron James' 20th Anniversary Edition And Every ''NBA 2K'' Cover Ever Created|author=Brian Mazique|work=[[Forbes]]|access-date=October 17, 2019|language=en}}</ref> was released on September 7, the same day as the release of ''[[NBA Live 19]]''. This game marks the first time that a version of the game was not made for the [[PlayStation 3]] or [[Xbox 360]] since those consoles released. The game's standard edition cover athlete is [[Giannis Antetokounmpo]]<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.nba.com/article/2018/07/02/giannis-antetokounmpo-nba-2k-cover-athlete-milwaukee-bucks|title=Giannis Antetokounmpo named cover athlete for ''NBA 2K19''|author=NBA.com Staff|work=NBA.com|access-date=July 18, 2018|language=en}}</ref> of the [[Milwaukee Bucks]], while the cover athlete for the Australian and New Zealand version of the game is [[Ben Simmons]] of the [[Philadelphia 76ers]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nbcsports.com/philadelphia/the700level/ben-simmons-graces-cover-first-ever-australian-nba-2k19|date=July 5, 2018|title=Ben Simmons graces cover of first-ever Australian'' NBA 2K19''|author=Josh Ellis|publisher=[[NBC Sports Philadelphia]]|access-date=October 15, 2019|language=en}}</ref> In addition, Kobe Bryant and Kevin Garnett both return as guest commentators, with analyst [[Bill Simmons]] being added to the announcer roster.

====''NBA 2K Playgrounds 2''====
{{main|NBA 2K Playgrounds 2}}
''NBA 2K Playgrounds 2'' was released on October 16, 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://gematsu.com/2018/09/nba-2k-playgrounds-2-launches-october-16|title=''NBA 2K Playgrounds 2'' launches October 16|work=Gematsu|date=September 8, 2018|access-date=September 8, 2018}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K Mobile''====
{{main|NBA 2K Mobile}}
''NBA 2K Mobile'' was released in November 2018 for iOS and Android. The game was developed by [[Cat Daddy Games]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.phonearena.com/news/Download-NBA-2K-Mobile-iPhone_id111191|title=The new NBA 2K Mobile drops on iOS, Android version coming soon|work=PhoneArena|date=November 20, 2018|access-date=November 20, 2018}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K20''====
{{main|NBA 2K20}}
''[[NBA 2K20]]'' was released on September 6, 2019. The game's standard and deluxe editions' cover athletes are [[Anthony Davis]] of the [[Los Angeles Lakers]], while the cover athlete for the Legend Edition is a former [[Miami Heat]] player [[Dwyane Wade]], who played for MIA in 2003–2016, 2018–2019.

It is also the first game in the series to include all 12 WNBA teams.

The guest commentator roster of Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett, and Bill Simmons all return for ''2K20''. Following [[2020 Calabasas helicopter crash|Bryant's death]], he was removed from the roster, leaving Garnett and Simmons.

===2020s===
====''NBA 2K21''====
{{main|NBA 2K21}}
''NBA 2K21'' was released on September 4, 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Bankhurst|first=Adam|title=NBA 2K21 Current-Gen Release Date Revealed, Next-Gen Version $10 More Expensive|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/nba-2k21-release-date-ps5-xbox-series-x-special-kobe-bryant-mamba-forever-edition-cover-star-zion-williamson-damian-lillard|access-date=July 2, 2020|website=[[IGN]]|date=July 2, 2020 |language=en}}</ref> The cover athlete for the standard edition on the [[Eighth generation of video game consoles|current console generation]] is [[Damian Lillard]]. [[Zion Williamson]] is the cover athlete for the standard version of the [[ninth generation of video game consoles|next console generation]], and [[Kobe Bryant]] is the cover athlete for the Legend Edition cover for both console generations. The ''Arcade Edition'' was released for [[Apple Arcade]] on April 2, 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|title=''NBA® 2K21'' Arcade Edition Launches Today on Apple Arcade|url=https://newsroom.2k.com/news/nbar-2k21-arcade-edition-launches-today-on-apple-arcade|date=April 2, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Apple Arcade launches its biggest expansion yet, growing its award-winning catalog to more than 180 games|url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/04/apple-arcade-expands-its-award-winning-catalog-to-more-than-180-games/|date=April 2, 2021}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K22''====
{{main|NBA 2K22}}
''NBA 2K22'' was released on September 10, 2021.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/22576121/nba-2k22-release-date-editions-cover-athletes|title=NBA 2K22 coming in September with Doncic, Durant, Dirk, Kareem on the covers|website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]|first=Samit|last=Sarkar|date=July 14, 2021}}</ref> The cover athlete for the standard edition is [[Luka Dončić]].<ref>{{Cite magazine|last=Pickman|first=Ben|title=Luka Dončić, Candace Parker Named NBA 2K22 Cover Stars|url=https://www.si.com/nba/2021/07/14/luka-doncic-nba-2k22-cover-athlete|access-date=July 14, 2021|magazine=Sports Illustrated|date=July 14, 2021 |language=en-us}}</ref> with [[Candace Parker]] featured on the WNBA 25th Anniversary Edition and [[Kareem Abdul-Jabbar]], [[Dirk Nowitzki]] and [[Kevin Durant]] on the NBA 75th Anniversary Edition.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 14, 2021 |title=Anyone, Anywhere: NBA® 2K22 Features Luka Dončić and NBA Scoring Legends – Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Dirk Nowitzki, and Kevin Durant – as Cover Athletes |url=https://newsroom.2k.com/news/anyone-anywhere-nbar-2k22-features-luka-doncic-and-nba-scoring-legends-kareem-abdul-jabbar-dirk-nowitzki-and-kevin-durant-as-cover-athletes |access-date=August 13, 2024 |website=2K Newsroom |language=en-US}}</ref> The ''Arcade Edition'' was released for Apple Arcade on October 19, 2021.<ref>{{Cite web|title=''NBA 2K22'': Arcade Edition App Trailer - Coming October 19, 2021| website=[[YouTube]] |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aJo9ziVwKA|date=October 12, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=''NBA® 2K22'' Arcade Edition Available Now on Apple Arcade|url=https://newsroom.2k.com/news/nbar-2k22-arcade-edition-available-now-on-apple-arcade|date=October 19, 2021}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K23''====
{{main|NBA 2K23}}
''NBA 2K23'' was released on September 9, 2022. The primary cover athlete for the standard and Digital Deluxe Edition is [[Devin Booker]] of the Phoenix Suns, while the cover athlete for the Michael Jordan Edition and Championship Edition is [[Michael Jordan]]. The game reintroduces the "Jordan Challenges" from [[NBA 2K11]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Berklan |first=Matt |date=July 5, 2022 |title=NBA 2K to Feature Michael Jordan on NBA 2K23 Covers |url=https://ontapsportsnet.com/2022/07/05/nba-2k23-releae-date-trailer-cover-michael-jordan-championship-edition/ |access-date=July 6, 2022 |website=On Tap Sports Net |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="techniknews.net">{{Cite web |date=July 4, 2022 |title=NBA 2K23: Boxart und Vorbesteller-Boni aufgetaucht [Exklusiv] |url=https://www.techniknews.net/news/nba-2k23-boxart-und-vorbesteller-boni-aufgetaucht-exklusiv/ |access-date=July 6, 2022 |website=TechnikNews}}</ref> The ''Arcade Edition'' was released for Apple Arcade on October 18, 2022.

====''NBA 2K24''====
{{main|NBA 2K24}}
''NBA 2K24'' was released on September 8, 2023. You can participate in games, upgrade your player's skills, and make decisions that shape their journey. The game introduces the "Mamba Moments". This was also the first game in the series to offer crossplay between Xbox and PlayStation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Is NBA 2K24 Cross Play? PS5, XBOX & PC |url=https://www.gamechampions.com/en/crossplay/nba-2k/ |access-date=August 13, 2024 |website=GameChampions |language=en}}</ref> The ''Arcade Edition'' was released for Apple Arcade on October 24, 2023.

'''''NBA 2K24 MyTEAM Mobile'''''

''NBA 2K24 MyTEAM Mobile'' was released on December 2023.

====''NBA 2K25''====
{{main|NBA 2K25}}
''NBA 2K25'' was released on September 4, 2024. The cover athletes are [[Jayson Tatum]] and [[A'ja Wilson]].

'''''NBA 2K25 MyTEAM Mobile'''''

''NBA 2K25 MyTEAM Mobile'' was released on November 29, 2024.

====''NBA 2K All Star''====
''NBA 2K All Star'' is a mobile game developed by 2K Sports and published by Tencent, primarily targeting the Chinese market. The game is basically the mobile version of ''NBA 2K Online 2'', it was released on March 25, 2025.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://technode.com/2025/02/18/tencent-and-2k-team-up-to-launch-mobile-game-nba-2k-all-star-on-march-25/|title=Tencent and 2K team up to launch mobile game NBA 2K All Star on March 25|access-date=February 18, 2025|language=en}}</ref>

====''NBA 2K26''====
{{main|NBA 2K26}}
''NBA 2K26'' was announced on July 8, 2025.<ref>{{cite magazine|author=Anthony Miller|title=NBA 2K26 Cover Athlete Revealed, Pre-Order Details Coming|url=https://www.si.com/esports/sports-games/nba-2k26-cover-athlete-revealed/|magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]]|date=July 8, 2025|access-date=July 9, 2025}}</ref> The cover athletes are [[Shai Gilgeous-Alexander]] and [[Angel Reese]]. It will be released on September 5, 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doolan |first=Liam |date=July 9, 2025 |title=NBA 2K26 Shoots Some Hoops On Switch 2 In September |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/07/nba-2k26-shoots-some-hoops-on-switch-2-in-september |access-date=July 10, 2025 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en}}</ref>

==Cover athletes==
{|class="wikitable"
|+List of standard cover athletes
!scope=col rowspan=2| Game
!scope=col colspan=2| Cover star
|-
!scope=col| Name
!scope=col| Team
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K (video game)|NBA 2K]]'' || rowspan="5"| [[Allen Iverson]] || rowspan="5"| [[Philadelphia 76ers]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K1]]''
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K2]]''
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K3]]''
|-
| ''[[ESPN NBA Basketball (video game)|ESPN NBA Basketball 2K4]]''
|-
| ''[[ESPN NBA 2K5]]'' || [[Ben Wallace (basketball)|Ben Wallace]] || [[Detroit Pistons]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K6]]'' || rowspan="2"| [[Shaquille O'Neal]] || rowspan="2"| [[Miami Heat]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K7]]''
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K8]]'' || [[Chris Paul]] || [[New Orleans Pelicans|New Orleans Hornets]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K9]]'' || [[Kevin Garnett]] || [[Boston Celtics]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K10]]'' || [[Kobe Bryant]] || [[Los Angeles Lakers]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K11]]'' || rowspan="2" | [[Michael Jordan]] || [[Chicago Bulls]]
|-
| rowspan="3"| ''[[NBA 2K12]]''|| [[Chicago Bulls]]
|-
| [[Larry Bird]] || [[Boston Celtics]]
|-
| [[Magic Johnson]] || [[Los Angeles Lakers]]
|-
| rowspan="3"| ''[[NBA 2K13]]'' || [[Derrick Rose]] || [[Chicago Bulls]]
|-
| [[Blake Griffin]] || [[Los Angeles Clippers]]
|-
| [[Kevin Durant]] || [[Oklahoma City Thunder]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K14]]'' || [[LeBron James]] || [[Miami Heat]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K15]]'' || [[Kevin Durant]] || [[Oklahoma City Thunder]]
|-
| rowspan="3"| ''[[NBA 2K16]]'' || [[Stephen Curry]] || [[Golden State Warriors]]
|-
| [[James Harden]] || [[Houston Rockets]]
|-
| [[Anthony Davis]] || [[New Orleans Pelicans]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K17]]'' || [[Paul George]] || [[Indiana Pacers]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K18]]'' || [[Kyrie Irving]] || [[Boston Celtics]]<ref>Irving was a member of the [[Cleveland Cavaliers]] when this cover was revealed. He was traded to the Celtics before the game was released and the Cavaliers cover was changed to the Celtics cover shortly after release.</ref>
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K19]]'' || [[Giannis Antetokounmpo]] || [[Milwaukee Bucks]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K20]]'' || [[Anthony Davis]] || [[Los Angeles Lakers]]
|-
| rowspan="2"| ''[[NBA 2K21]]'' || [[Damian Lillard]] || [[Portland Trail Blazers]]
|-
| [[Zion Williamson]] || [[New Orleans Pelicans]]
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K22]]'' || [[Luka Dončić]] || [[Dallas Mavericks]]
|-
|''[[NBA 2K23]]''
|[[Devin Booker]]
|[[Phoenix Suns]]<ref name="techniknews.net"/>
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K24]]'' || [[Kobe Bryant]]||[[Los Angeles Lakers]]
|-
|''[[NBA 2K25]]'' || [[Jayson Tatum]]||[[Boston Celtics]]
|-
|''[[NBA 2K26]]'' || [[Shai Gilgeous-Alexander]]||[[Oklahoma City Thunder]]
|}

{|class="wikitable"
|+List of special edition cover athletes
!scope=col rowspan=2| Game
!scope=col colspan=3| Cover star
|-
!scope=col| Name
!scope=col| Team
!scope=col| Version
|-
| rowspan="5"| ''[[NBA 2K16]]'' || [[Michael Jordan]] || rowspan="2" | [[Chicago Bulls]] || Michael Jordan Special Edition
|-
| [[Pau Gasol]] || rowspan="2" | Spain
|-
| [[Marc Gasol]] || [[Memphis Grizzlies]]
|-
| [[Dennis Schröder]] || [[Atlanta Hawks]] || Germany
|-
| [[Tony Parker]] || [[San Antonio Spurs]] || France
|-
| rowspan="3" | ''[[NBA 2K17]]'' || [[Kobe Bryant]] || [[Los Angeles Lakers]] || Legend and Legend Gold
|-
| [[Pau Gasol]] || [[San Antonio Spurs]] || Spain
|-
| [[Danilo Gallinari]] || [[Denver Nuggets]] || Italy
|-
| rowspan="4"| ''[[NBA 2K18]]'' || rowspan="2" | [[Shaquille O'Neal]] || [[Miami Heat]] || Legend
|-
| [[Los Angeles Lakers]] || Legend Gold
|-
| [[DeMar DeRozan]] || [[Toronto Raptors]] || Canada
|-
| [[Kevin Durant]] || [[Golden State Warriors]] || Nike Connect<ref name="auto"/>
|-
| rowspan="2"| ''[[NBA 2K19]]'' || [[LeBron James]] || [[Los Angeles Lakers]] || 20th Anniversary Edition
|-
| [[Ben Simmons]] || [[Philadelphia 76ers]] || Australia and New Zealand
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K20]]'' || [[Dwyane Wade]] || [[Miami Heat]] || Legend
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K21]]'' || [[Kobe Bryant]] || [[Los Angeles Lakers]] || Mamba Forever Edition
|-
| rowspan="5" |''[[NBA 2K22]]''
|[[Candace Parker]]
|[[Chicago Sky]]
|[[Women's National Basketball Association|WNBA]] 25th Anniversary Edition
|-
|[[Kevin Durant]]
|[[Brooklyn Nets]]
| rowspan="3" |[[National Basketball Association|NBA]] 75th Anniversary Edition
|-
|[[Dirk Nowitzki]]
|[[Dallas Mavericks]]
|-
|[[Kareem Abdul-Jabbar]]
|[[Los Angeles Lakers]]
|-
| [[Rui Hachimura]] || [[Washington Wizards]] || Japan
|-
| rowspan="4" |''[[NBA 2K23]]''
|[[Michael Jordan]]
|[[Chicago Bulls]]
|Michael Jordan and Championship Edition
|-
|[[Diana Taurasi]]
|[[Phoenix Mercury]]
| rowspan="2" |[[Women's National Basketball Association|WNBA]] Edition
|-
|[[Sue Bird]]
|[[Seattle Storm]]
|-
|[[J. Cole]] || N/A
|[[Dreamville|DREAMER]] Edition
|-
| rowspan="3" | ''[[NBA 2K24]]'' || [[Kobe Bryant]] || [[Los Angeles Lakers]] || Kobe Bryant and Black Mamba Edition
|-
|[[Sabrina Ionescu]]
|[[New York Liberty]]
|[[Women's National Basketball Association|WNBA]] Edition
|-
|[[Allen Iverson]] 
|[[Philadelphia 76ers]]
|Arcade Edition
|-
| rowspan="4" | ''[[NBA 2K25]]'' || [[Vince Carter]] || [[Toronto Raptors]] || Hall of Fame Edition
|-
|[[A'Ja Wilson]]
|[[Las Vegas Aces]]
|[[Women's National Basketball Association|WNBA]] Edition
|-
| [[Jayson Tatum]] 
| [[Boston Celtics]] || rowspan="2" | All Star Edition
|- 
| [[A'Ja Wilson]] || [[Las Vegas Aces]]
|-
| rowspan="2" | ''[[NBA 2K26]]'' 
|[[Angel Reese]]
| Chicago Sky
| Leave No Doubt Edition
|-
|[[Carmelo Anthony]]
|[[New York Knicks]]
|Superstar Edition
|} 

{|class="wikitable"
|+List of spin off cover athletes
!scope=col rowspan=2| Game
! colspan="2" scope="col" | Cover star
|-
!scope=col| Name
!scope=col| Team
|-
| ''[[NBA 2K10|NBA 2K10 Draft Combine]]'' || [[Derrick Rose]] || [[Chicago Bulls]]
|-
|''[[NBA Playgrounds]]''
|[[Allen Iverson]]
|[[Philadelphia 76ers]]
|-
| rowspan="4"| ''[[NBA 2K Playgrounds 2]]'' || [[Karl-Anthony Towns]] || rowspan='2' | [[Minnesota Timberwolves]]
|-
| [[Kevin Garnett]]
|-
| [[Jayson Tatum]] || [[Boston Celtics]]
|-
| [[Julius Erving]] || [[Philadelphia 76ers]]
|-
| rowspan="8"| ''[[NBA 2K Mobile]]'' || [[Michael Jordan]] || [[Chicago Bulls]]
|-
| [[LeBron James]] || [[Los Angeles Lakers]]
|-
| [[Zion Williamson]] || [[New Orleans Pelicans]]
|-
| [[Kevin Durant]] || [[Brooklyn Nets]]
|-
| [[Damian Lillard]] || [[Portland Trail Blazers]]
|-
| [[Jayson Tatum]] || [[Boston Celtics]]
|-
| [[Donovan Mitchell]] || [[Cleveland Cavaliers]]
|-
| [[Shai Gilgeous-Alexander]] || [[Oklahoma City Thunder]]
|-
| rowspan="2"| ''NBA SuperCard'' || [[Karl-Anthony Towns]] || [[Minnesota Timberwolves]]
|-
| [[Jayson Tatum]] || [[Boston Celtics]]
|}

==Reception==
The ''NBA 2K'' series has achieved consistent critical and commercial success. Elements of the series that are frequently praised include its presentation, specifically its commentary,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2016/9/8/12847744/nba-2k17-trailer-commentary-team|title=''NBA 2K17'' expands commentary with a bunch of new analysts|work=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]|date=September 8, 2016|access-date=September 8, 2016}}</ref> attention to detail, and soundtrack, its abundance of content, its overall gameplay, and its consistency in terms of yearly releases without any drastic dips in quality.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianmazique/2018/08/16/nba-2k19-soundtrack-complete-list-of-the-47-songs-curated-by-rapper-travis-scott/#26b3687bb95e|title=''NBA 2K19'' Soundtrack: Complete List Of The 47 Songs Curated By Rapper Travis Scott|last=Mazique|first=Brian|work=Forbes|access-date=October 19, 2018|language=en}}</ref> In recent years, the series has been seen by some critics as superior to other basketball games, specifically in comparison with [[EA Sports]]' [[NBA Live|''NBA Live'' series]].<ref name="Polygon article"/><ref name="Polygon article 2"/><ref name="Polygon article 3"/>

Conversely, later installments have been criticized for their technical issues, particularly in regards to the online components; the introduction of [[microtransaction]]s; and the quality of some of the more story-focused incarnations of the MyCareer mode.<ref>Wood, Austin (January 9, 2014). [https://www.si.com/extra-mustard/2014/01/09/nba-2k14-microtransactions-overkill-2k-sports-cut-it-out "2K Sports Needs To Ease Up On All The Microtransactions In ''NBA 2K14''"]. ''[[Sports Illustrated]]''. Retrieved January 6, 2017.</ref><ref name="Destructoid article">Summa, Robert (June 4, 2016). [https://www.destructoid.com/latest-nba-2k16-news-is-everything-that-is-wrong-with-the-nba-2k-series-293320.phtml "Latest ''NBA 2K16'' news is everything that is wrong with the ''NBA 2K'' series"]. ''[[Destructoid]]''. Retrieved January 6, 2017.</ref> The series has also been criticized for the lack of innovations in several installments.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://oregonsportsnews.com/do-games-like-nba-2k-change-from-year-to-year-are-they-worth-the/|access-date=April 4, 2021|website=oregonsportsnews.com|title=Do Games Like NBA 2K Change from Year to Year? Are They Worth the $$$? – Oregon Sports News|date=June 16, 2020 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=October 8, 2020|title="''NBA 2k21'' is the Worst ''NBA'' Game Ever", ''NBA 2k21'' listed as Crime on steam Store Basketball Fans|url=https://thesportsrush.com/nba-news-nba-2k21-is-the-worst-nba-game-ever-nba-2k21-listed-as-crime-on-steam-store-basketball-fans/|access-date=April 4, 2021|website=The SportsRush|language=en-US}}</ref>

Specifically concerning sales, the ''NBA 2K'' series has established itself as [[List of best-selling video game franchises|one of the better-selling video game franchises]]. A May 2014 [[earnings call]] reported that games in the series have sold over 17 million copies worldwide.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://seekingalpha.com/article/2216163-take-two-interactive-softwares-ttwo-ceo-strauss-zelnick-on-q4-2014-results-earnings-call-transcript?part=single|title=Take-Two Interactive Software's (TTWO) CEO Strauss Zelnick on Q4 2014 Results - Earnings Call Transcript|work=Seeking Alpha |date=March 13, 2014|access-date=January 6, 2017 |last1=Transcripts |first1=SA }}</ref> A report in February 2017, however, suggested that games in the franchise have sold in excess of 68 million copies.<ref>Makuch, Eddie (February 9, 2017). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-launching-its-own-pro-gaming-league-with-take-/1100-6447695/ "NBA Launching Its Own Pro Gaming League With Take-Two"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved February 10, 2017.</ref> According to one analyst, the most recent entries in the series average at least four million copies sold.<ref name="Polygon article"/> The best-selling game in the series is ''[[NBA 2K14]]'', which sold over seven million copies; it is also [[Take-Two Interactive]]'s best-selling sports game.<ref>Pereira, Chris (August 8, 2014). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/with-nba-2k14s-huge-success-why-doesnt-2k-make-mor/1100-6421599/ "With ''NBA 2K14''{{'}}s Huge Success, Why Doesn't 2K Make More Sports Games?"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved December 2, 2020.</ref><ref>Kinnick D. (December 2, 2020)."''NBA 2K20'' Is The Best-Selling Sports Game because it had over 12 million copies."]. ''[[IGN]]''. Retrieved January 6, 2017.</ref> ''[[NBA 2K16]]'' is the fastest-selling title in the series, shipping over four million copies within its first week of release.<ref>Makuch, Eddie (October 2, 2015). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-2k16-breaks-records-with-4-million-copies-ship/1100-6431093/ "NBA 2K16 Breaks Records With 4 Million Copies Shipped in One Week"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved January 6, 2017.</ref><ref>Brightman, James (November 5, 2015). [http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2015-11-05-nba-2k16-gta-v-drive-usd55m-profit-for-take-two "''NBA 2K16'', ''GTA V'' drive $55m profit for Take-Two"]. ''[[Eurogamer#Subsidiaries|GamesIndustry.biz]]''. Retrieved January 6, 2017.</ref> ''NBA 2K16'' sold over 10{{nbsp}}million units in 2017.<ref>{{cite news |title=NBA 2K18 Hits Franchise Sales Record |url=http://ir.take2games.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=86428&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=2361684 |access-date=February 6, 2019 |publisher=[[Take-Two Interactive]] |date=August 2, 2018}}</ref> As of December 2018, the series has sold over 90{{nbsp}}million units worldwide, making it the best-selling NBA video game series.<ref name="take2">{{cite news |title=Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. Reports Strong Results for Fiscal Third Quarter 2019 |url=http://ir.take2games.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=86428&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=2386288 |access-date=February 6, 2019 |work=Investor Relations |publisher=[[Take-Two Interactive]] |date=February 6, 2019}}</ref>

Games in the ''NBA 2K'' series have been nominated for multiple awards, from events such as the [[Spike Video Game Awards]], [[The Game Awards]], and the [[D.I.C.E. Awards]], usually related to being the best sports game of the year.<ref>Nunneley, Stephany (December 7, 2013). [https://www.vg247.com/2013/12/07/spike-vgx-2013-award-winners-injustice-gods-among-us-nabs-best-fighting-game/ "Spike VGX 2013 Award winners: Grand Theft Auto 5 wins Game of the Year"]. ''[[VG247]]''. Retrieved January 6, 2017.</ref><ref>Stark, Chelsea (December 1, 2016). [http://www.polygon.com/2016/12/1/13784410/the-game-awards-winners "The Game Awards: Here's the full winners list"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved January 6, 2017.</ref><ref>Nunneley, Stephany (December 6, 2014). [https://www.vg247.com/2014/12/06/here-are-the-winners-of-the-game-awards-2014/ "Here are the winners of The Game Awards 2014"]. ''[[VG247]]''. Retrieved January 6, 2017.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.interactive.org/games/video_game_details.asp?idAward=2021&idGame=1773 |title=D.I.C.E. Awards By Video Game Details NBA 2K21 |publisher=[[Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences]] |website=interactive.org |access-date=February 2, 2024}}</ref>

==''NBA 2K League''==
{{main|NBA 2K League}}
In February 2017, the National Basketball Association, in conjunction with Take-Two Interactive, announced the creation of an [[esports]] league centering on the ''NBA 2K'' franchise. Known as the ''[[NBA 2K League]]'', it commence competition in 2018. It was the first esports league to be operated by a [[Major professional sports leagues in the United States and Canada|North American professional sports league]]. The league is structured similarly to the NBA; teams are operated by NBA franchises and feature five professional esports players. The teams compete against each other in the current year's ''NBA 2K'' game, and each member of a team only uses their in-game MyPlayer. The league features a regular season, as well as the [[NBA Playoffs|playoffs]] and [[NBA Finals|finals]].<ref>Makuch, Eddie (February 9, 2017). [http://www.gamespot.com/articles/nba-launching-its-own-pro-gaming-league-with-take-/1100-6447695/ "NBA Launching Its Own Pro Gaming League With Take-Two"]. ''[[GameSpot]]''. Retrieved February 11, 2017.</ref><ref>Sarkar, Samit (February 9, 2017). [http://www.polygon.com/2017/2/9/14554226/nba-2k-esports-eleague-2018 "''NBA 2K'' maker teaming up with NBA for esports league"]. ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]''. Retrieved February 11, 2017.</ref><ref>Wolf, Jacob (May 4, 2017). [https://www.espn.com/esports/story/_/id/19305330/nba-announces-17-teams-participate-nba-2k-esports-league "NBA announces 17 teams will participate in NBA 2K League"]. ''[[ESPN]]''. Retrieved May 10, 2017.</ref>

==Legal issues==
Two separate lawsuits have been filed against Take-Two related to their recreation of tattoos on NBA players recreated in the series. The first suit was filed by Solid Oak Sketches, filed in January 2016, after trying to seek a {{USD|1.1 million}} licensing agreement to use the registered copyrighted tattoos with Take-Two.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/14693836/makers-nba2k-sued-graphically-representing-tattoos-players-permission | title = Makers of ''NBA2K'' sued for using players' tattoos without permission | first= Darren | last= Rovell |date = February 1, 2016 | access-date = March 27, 2019 | work =[[ESPN]] }}</ref> [[LeBron James]] had submitted a statement supporting Take-Two, in that he asserted he has given the company the license use his image in their cases, which included his tattoos from Solid Oak Sketches, but this conclusion was thrown out by the judge. In March 2020, a federal District Court judge ruled that while the tattoos were copyrighted elements their use in the games were small enough to meet ''[[de minimis]]'' considerations, and that further, due to the nature of tattooing, an implicit license to use the tattoos was granted by the license granted for using the players' likeness. The judge summarily dismissed the case, as well as asserting that broadly, video games using licensed likenesses of players with their tattoos will be using the tattoo art within fair use.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/nba-2k-publisher-beats-copyright-suit-lebron-james-tattoos-1286847 | title = Publisher Beats Copyright Suit Over LeBron James' Tattoos | first = Eriq | last =Gardner | date = March 29, 2020 | access-date = March 29, 2020 | publisher = [[The Hollywood Reporter]] }}</ref> The defense of fair use was applicable to the defendants as the purpose of the tattoos in the game (to create a realistic depiction of the players) was satisfactorily transformative in comparison to their original purpose (as a form of self-expression through body art).<ref>{{Cite web|date=March 26, 2020|title=Case citation: Solid Oak Sketches LLC v. 2K Games, Inc., 1:16-cv-00724-LTS-SDA (S.D.N.Y. March 26, 2020) [page 17]|url=https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.nysd.452890/gov.uscourts.nysd.452890.164.0_1.pdf|website=Storage. Court Listener}}</ref>

A separate lawsuit was filed by tattoo artist James Hayden in December 2017; Hayden asserted that Take-Two's recreation of his tattoos designed for NBA players like LeBron James within ''NBA 2K16'' and onward were copyright infringements. Take-Two sought a summary judgement to close the case, but by March 2019, the preceding judge gave partial summary to Take-Two, but left the main question of copyright infringement open. Hayden has failed to register the copyrights until after ''NBA 2K16'' was released, leaving 2K17 and onward potentially liable to be determined in a court trial. One question raised by the judge was whether the ''NBA 2K'' series was an ongoing game with annual updates, or if each release was considered a substantial new work, meaning that any copyright violation would apply repeatedly to all three post-2016 games in the series or as a singular violation.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/caa-sued-by-writer-showtime-netflix-ryan-seacrest-hollywood-docket-1197426 | title = Hollywood Docket: CAA Sued by Writer Amid WGA Fight | first= Ashley | last= Cullins | date = March 27, 2019 | access-date = March 27, 2019  | work = [[The Hollywood Reporter]] }}</ref>

== See also ==

* [[NFL 2K]]
* [[MLB 2K]]
* [[NHL 2K]]
* [[WWE 2K]]
* [[PGA Tour 2K]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
*{{official website|https://nba.2k.com}}

{{Portal bar|Video games|Sports}}
{{NBA 2K series}}
{{Take-Two Interactive}}

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[[Category:NBA 2K]]
[[Category:2K Games franchises]]
[[Category:Esports games]]
[[Category:Take-Two Interactive franchises]]
[[Category:Video game franchises]]
[[Category:Video game franchises introduced in 1999]]
[[Category:Sports video games by series]]