NBA 2K26 has found its face, and it’s none other than Oklahoma City Thunder standout Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. After leading his team to a long-awaited championship and locking down MVP honors, SGA is stepping into the spotlight in more ways than one. The choice might’ve felt inevitable, but it still hits with impact.
NBA 2K26 honors MVP season with a cover spotlight
Gilgeous-Alexander had a career-defining run last season, averaging 32.7 points per game and carrying the Thunder to their first-ever NBA title. Fans speculated he’d be on the next cover the moment that trophy was hoisted, and now it’s official. NBA 2K26 puts him front and center, a reflection of both his skill and star power.
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Shai makes NBA 2K history as the first Canadian cover athlete
This marks the first time a Canadian player has landed the honor. SGA’s rise from promising rookie to global face of the franchise shows just how far the league and the game have come. Speculation around his selection began in June, when Ronnie2K posted a photo with him online, setting off a wave of fan theories that turned out to be right on target.
NBA 2K26 joins recent covers with a new direction
In recent years, 2K has rotated through a variety of big names. Last year saw Jayson Tatum, A’ja Wilson, and Vince Carter on alternate editions. Before that, NBA 2K24 paid tribute to Kobe Bryant. With NBA 2K26, the series pivots toward the future, spotlighting one of the league’s most exciting young leaders.
Other stars were in the conversation
SGA wasn’t the only name fans tossed around. Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic both had strong cases, especially with Luka’s high-profile exit from Dallas. But when it came down to raw performance and momentum, no one touched Shai’s trajectory.
Why NBA 2K26 made the right call
Putting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the cover isn’t just about celebrating a championship season; it’s about showcasing the league’s evolution. Young talent. Global reach. Next-gen energy. NBA 2K26 isn’t just another entry; it’s a statement. And this cover tells you exactly where the game is heading.
