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Carmelo Anthony, one of Syracuse University's most celebrated basketball players, will feature on the cover of NBA 2K26's Superstar Edition. The video game, set to release on September 5, 2025, will also spotlight Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Angel Reese on its various editions.
Anthony, who led Syracuse to a national championship in 2003, will be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame later this year. His illustrious career includes 19 NBA seasons, 10 All-Star selections, and three Olympic gold medals. "Being honored on the cover of NBA 2K26 and inducted into the Hall of Fame in the same year is surreal," Anthony said.
The NBA 2K26 game will be available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Special editions, like the Superstar and Leave No Doubt Editions, offer early access starting August 29. According to ESPN, the game will feature enhanced ProPLAY features and an overhauled MyCAREER mode.
Angel Reese, a rising WNBA star, will appear on the WNBA Edition, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA MVP, graces the Standard Edition. Reese, who debuted her signature shoe with Reebok, sees her cover appearance as a statement for representation in sports. Reese emphasized the importance of showing young girls they can be confident and bold.