Canadian basketball sensation and Oklahoma City Thunder standout, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, has been officially unveiled as the cover athlete for the highly anticipated NBA 2K26 video game, solidifying his rising status as one of the league’s premier talents. The announcement, made on Tuesday, marks yet another major achievement in what has been a meteoric rise for the 2024–2025 NBA Most Valuable Player.
The NBA 2K franchise, developed by 2K Sports, is regarded as the gold standard in basketball gaming and its annual cover selection is reserved for players who have made a significant impact on the sport. Gilgeous-Alexander, fondly known by fans as “SGA,” now joins an elite group of players to have graced the game’s front cover—a testament to his dominant performances on the court and increasing global influence.
Fresh off an MVP-winning season where he led the Oklahoma City Thunder to a deep playoff run, SGA has not only earned the respect of peers and analysts, but also captured the imagination of fans with his composed playmaking, elite scoring ability, and defensive prowess. His selection as the face of NBA 2K26 is seen by many as well deserved.
In a statement released by 2K Sports, the company described Gilgeous-Alexander as “the embodiment of the modern NBA star—versatile, driven, and captivating.” The announcement has sparked excitement across the basketball community, with fans and industry stakeholders celebrating what many are calling a win for both the player and the sport at large.
SGA’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. Drafted 11th overall in 2018, the 26-year-old has grown into a franchise player and one of the league’s most consistent performers. His blend of humility, hard work, and star power has made him a fan favorite, both in the United States and in his native Canada.
With the launch of NBA 2K26 expected later this year, anticipation is already building for what the game will bring in terms of updated features and enhanced realism. But for now, the spotlight firmly remains on Gilgeous-Alexander—MVP, leader, and now, the face of one of the world’s most popular sports video games.