Sports video games are one of the best ways to really get to know the ins and outs of a particular sport, but they're not always easy to master. Some sports simulators like EA Sports FC are more beginner-friendly than others, because there are far fewer small, intricate rules that govern how you play, and with larger teams there is usually more room for error.
This isn't so much the case in basketball, so players coming into NBA 2K26 as a fresh-faced basketball fan may have a few obstacles to overcome before they get into a rhythm with the game. Basketball is a fun and challenging sport, but can take some getting used to, so these beginner tips for NBA 2K26 will help guide you on your way to GOAT status.
NBA 2K26: Best Players, Ranked
The ratings are in, and the top players from NBA 2K26 have been determined in the lead up to the 2025-26 season.
Beginner Tips for NBA 2K26
Basketball may seem simple in premise, but can be really challenging to understand, especially if you're coming into a game for the first time. Here are some considerations you may want to keep in mind when first starting your virtual basketball journey.
It's Not All About Scoring
While it's great to rack up points for your player as much as possible, you might not have the highest percentage shot or the right positioning to score. Or, it could be a simple matter of having a bad matchup - driving to the basket against a guard might work, but against a big center or PF, you'll most likely get blocked. Scoring will certainly pad your stat sheet, but great players also understand how to use their teammates.
If your player has gone cold, then look to your teammates for scoring opportunities. Focusing your attention on other aspects of the game, such as assists or rebounds, will help to facilitate further scoring and will go a long way to improving your team's chemistry.
Become a Student of the Game
NBA 2K26 isn't the kind of game that you'll thrive in from just picking up a controller and playing - there are certain rules and controls that will make life on the court far, far easier. Take the time to pore through game tutorials, learn the rules, and study some of the basic strategy controls.
You don't necessarily need to know everything there is to know about basketball strategy to play well and have a good time, but even learning basic commands, like calling for a teammate to set a screen, will already make it far easier to get yourself in a position to take wide-open shots or dish to a teammate for a timely bucket.
Play To Your Position's Strengths
As the years go by, players are becoming progressively adaptable in multiple positions. In saying that, most of the time these positions will be overlapping - if you're a rebounding power forward, you might slot in a center from time to time, or you might shift from SF to guard when the circumstances call for it.
Regardless, the best practice is to understand your role within the team and work with it. If you're controlling a guard, look for scoring or passing opportunities. If you're a center, control the paint both offensively and defensively by rebounding and contesting layups/shots.
Trust & Use Your Teammates
One of the first mistakes I made when I first picked up an NBA 2K game was to chase the ball wherever it went, which largely resulted in the opposition getting wide open shots and my teammate grade plummeting. The first big lesson to learn in any basketball simulator is to trust your teammates and stick to your defensive assignment. Basketball is a high-scoring game, so baskets will be scored no matter what, but you should at least make your matchup work for it.
The arrow symbol around your controlling player will be your best friend in defense. Keep an eye on which player the arrow is pointing to, as this will allow you to stay on your assignment and adjust to any switches in focus. The more attached to your opposition player you are, the harder it will be for them to score, and the more your teammates will love you for it.
You're Not Going To Get Steals Every Time
Another big mistake I made when I first started playing basketball games was constantly fouling. Not only is it frustrating racking up fouls and stopping the clock, it can also give the opposition significant advantages as the game goes on. Use the steal button sparingly, and probably avoid it if your player has a low steal rating.
For starters, there is a "team foul" counter each quarter. Once you have exceeded this counter, the opposition will get free throws for each foul for the remaining time. This isn't so bad when time isn't on your side, but it is the easiest way for the opposition to score, so you don't want this happening unless it's the final minutes of the game. Not only this, but if you're playing a single-player game mode like MyCareer, you can risk losing playing time if you're in foul trouble, or be fouled out of the whole game if you get 6 fouls.
The best time to go for a steal is when your energy levels are high and the opposition player is using a dribble move. You may still get the occasional steal while the other player is dribbling normally, but you're more likely to be called for a reach-in foul.
- Released
- September 5, 2025
- ESRB
- Everyone / In-Game Purchases, Users Interact
- Developer(s)
- Visual Concepts
- Publisher(s)
- 2K
- Engine
- Unreal Engine 5
WHERE TO PLAY
- Genre(s)
- Sports
