The NBA 2K series is primed for another release at the end of September, and fans are already in an uproar. Specifically, Kobe Bryant received his lowest rating of his career setting fans in a frenzy over this disgrace. This response illustrates the prominence of the NBA 2K game series, and its close relationship to NBA fans. NBA 2K is an essential part of the culture surrounding basketball in America.
For many years, the series has tightened the stranglehold on NBA game choices as the NBA Live franchise has sputtered. Unrivaled by opponents, NBA 2K has found its way into millions of homes across the nation providing a medium to settle disputes, pass time on a rainy day, or even for professional competition. I’m here to prepare you for a new season by announcing the ALL-NBA 2K first, second, and third teams.
Of course some of the best NBA players will be unstoppable in the upcoming game, but you know that already. This list does not include actual NBA All-Stars, instead, these All-NBA 2K teams are comprised of the hidden gems that can carry your team to victory with an outrageous performance that will leave your opponents cursing at the television.
The measurements were subjective, and based on the abilities of the players whose skill sets can be substantially taken advantage of and are conducive to a successful style of play. The best way to play NBA 2K, is to run and gun with lights out shooters and athletic wings who are great in isolation attack. There are plenty of other slightly above-average NBA players who deserve to make this list, but these names stick out over many years of play or how helpful we expect them to be in NBA 2K16.
All-NBA 2K Third Team
Point Guard: Mo Williams
The veteran guard will be losing some speed as the miles accrue on his feet, but he is still one of the most dangerous perimeter threats in NBA 2K. If playing from behind, Williams can lead a triumphant comeback by nailing consecutive deep shots.
Shooting Guard: Jodie Meeks
Similar to Williams, Meeks perimeter scoring in 2K is often absurd. Just like in real life, Meeks can become streaky so don’t rely on him for an entire game. Regardless, Meeks is a serious force to be reckoned with and often times severely outperforms his actual abilities.
Small Forward: Kent Bazemore
One of the most underrated 2K players, Bazemore offers a little bit of everything. If needed, he can be subbed in at both guard positions and score from anywhere on the floor. Bazemore’s release is smooth as a baby’s bottom, and his crossover isn’t too shabby either.
Power Forward: Ryan Anderson
I’ve never seen him miss a shot beyond the arc in any NBA 2K game. If you can drive and kick all game to Ryan Anderson, just enjoy the effortlessness in which the ball finds the bottom of the net.
Center: Rudy Gobert
The stifle tower is primed for a breakthrough season in the NBA as well as in NBA 2K. Gobert can’t create for himself easily, yet, he can be on the receiving end of countless alley oops for the upcoming game. Not to mention, his blocking ability will instill fear in opponents who thrive on driving to the rim with premiere finishers.
All-NBA 2K Second Team
Point Guard: Louis Williams
One of the best backup guards in the league, Williams offers instant offense. Often, players in NBA 2K’s All-Star Team-Up Mode, will forgo superstar choices for Williams because of his shooting prowess which is the most essential skill in NBA 2K to hone.
Shooting Guard: Gerald Green
A human highlight reel whose game transposes smoothly into NBA 2K, Green’s vicious dunks can bring down an opponent’s morale quickly. Hit turbo, go towards the rim, and watch the show.
Small Forward: Tyreke Evans
One of the all-time great 2K players, Evans is an unstoppable force with the ball. Much like Rudy Gay, Evans can be utilized at several positions thanks to his ball handling skill and size.
Power Forward: Josh Smith
A Swiss army-knife of sorts, Smith can be relied upon to provide a lineup with versatility. Unlike in real games, fans can control Smith’s regrettable shooting choices by being a pivotal part of the offense in other ways. Even though Smith has many years under his belt, he is still spry and can surprise opponents with athletic moves to the basket. 2K players won’t be able to enjoy Smith’s abilities for too much longer as he ages so take advantage of his well-rounded game in 2K now.
Center: Andrew Bogut
An absolutely underrated big man on all accounts, Bogut is an ideal center in the game. I have witnessed his blocks send a ball several rows into the stands. Defense is hardly a priority for most 2K players, but if an opponent’s team lives and dies by cheap dunks with athletic wings, Bogut can be the best of help. Not to mention, Bogut is a great passer which helps your shooters in space.
All-NBA 2K First Team
Point Guard: Goran Dragic
Circus layups, consistent perimeter shooting, and crisp passing are all part of Dragic’s MO. There is nothing the crafty guard can’t accomplish in the game, his athleticism doesn’t match that of some of the real All-Star guards, but his value is undeniable. He serves as the best NBA 2K Point Guard who wasn’t an All-Star last season.
Shooting Guard: Jamal Crawford
Possibly the most enjoyable player to use over many years, Crawford is consistently one of the best 2K players every season. His style of play is the most perfectly suited for 2K players looking to take advantage of the game’s “microwave” shooters. Crawford can hit from anywhere on the court, and his dribble creates space from even the best of defenders. Not to mention, his free throw is essentially automatic which abundantly helps a shaky free-throw system in the 2K series. Just like in real life, Crawford is a quintessential baller and bringing him off the bench to torch your opponent’s second string is highly recommended for the upcoming release of NBA 2K16
Small Forward: J.R. Smith
“When in doubt, just shoot.” Smith’s motto holds true in real life, and in NBA 2K. If there was any NBA player that was made to be a video game character, it is J.R. There is only one true skill for Smith in the game, and it’s his incomprehensible ability to shoot contested three’s without issue. While playing against the Cavaliers several times on Xbox Live, I have been the victim of Smith’s uncanny ability to be entirely guarded and shoot a fade away three into the bottom of the net. Be on the other side of this story, use J.R. Smith when in doubt.
Power Forward: Rudy Gay
A poor man’s Kevin Durant in real life, Gay rivals Duran’ts NBA 2K output. Gay provides limitless scoring and length across various positions. You can plant him anywhere on the floor and a facet of his game will find a way to shine through. An overrated volume shooter, Gay can light it up as well as attack the basket with ferociousness. I like Gay at PF because of his speed, and the fact that most players don’t utlize big men on offense. Therefore, Gay is an additional weapon suitable for the element of fast-paced 2K games. His ability to play three different positions makes Gay a great took to utilize in this season’s game.
Center: Hassan Whiteside
“I’m just trying to get my 2K rating up”. One of the media highlights from last season came when Whiteside proclaimed the true reason behind his phenomenal play on the basketball court. Well, Whiteside has accomplished his goal as 2K16 will boost his rating considerably. Even at a measly rating in NBA 2K15, Whiteside was a forced to be reckoned with. Similar to Bogut, Whiteside can control dominant the paint with his length and cause serious problem for would-be dunkers. Whiteside isn’t too shabby in the post either for players who actually want to play a basketball simulation game, not a street ball dunk fest. Hopefully, Whiteside’s player model will come with a tackle option so I can take down other big men after plays. Whiteside’s immeasurable potential earns him a spot on our All-NBA 2K First Team.