Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Honored as NBA 2K26 Cover Athlete

2K Games has announced that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will grace the cover of the Standard Edition of its upcoming basketball simulation, NBA 2K26. This widely anticipated decision comes as no surprise to fans who followed the Oklahoma City Thunder star's remarkable performance during the 2024-25 NBA season.

Gilgeous-Alexander's extraordinary year saw him claim the league's scoring title, averaging an impressive 32.7 points per contest. Beyond his scoring prowess, he was also honored with both the NBA MVP and NBA Finals MVP awards, culminating in his team's championship victory. This trifecta of accolades—scoring leader, MVP, and Finals MVP—places him in an elite fraternity of NBA greats, a group that includes Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal, and Michael Jordan, who accomplished this feat four times in the 1990s. This historic season solidifies Gilgeous-Alexander's status among the sport's all-time legends.

While further details regarding other special editions of NBA 2K26 remain under wraps, it is widely expected that 2K will follow its established pattern of releasing multiple versions of the game. Although an official launch date has not yet been provided, the game is anticipated to arrive around the first week of September, aligning with previous releases in the franchise.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's selection for the NBA 2K26 cover symbolizes the pinnacle of dedication and talent in sports. His journey illustrates that perseverance, combined with exceptional skill, can lead to monumental achievements and inspire countless others to strive for greatness in their own pursuits. This recognition not only celebrates his individual excellence but also reinforces the positive impact that hard work and determination can have on an entire team and community.