When NBA 2K announced Carmelo Anthony as the cover athlete for their upcoming NBA 2K26 Superstar Edition, basketball fans didn’t hold back their excitement. The former NBA star’s selection sparked immediate praise across social media, with many calling it one of the best cover choices in the franchise’s history.
Why Did NBA 2K Choose Carmelo Anthony for the Cover?
NBA 2K is a popular basketball video game franchise that releases an updated version every year. While Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will grace the cover of the official edition, Anthony earned the honor of being the Superstar Edition cover athlete.
Since Anthony retired from the league a few seasons ago, he remains an inspiration to several young stars in the modern NBA. Many view him as one of the greatest offensive talents in the game’s history.
Stay ME7O. Stay legendary. 👌
Carmelo Anthony is your #NBA2K26 Superstar Edition Cover Athlete!
Pre-order NBA 2K26 today! pic.twitter.com/eNeUJYZwLT
— NBA 2K (@NBA2K) July 9, 2025
The cover features Anthony hitting a 3-pointer and pointing towards his headband, an iconic moment that veteran fans remember to this day. Although Anthony never won an NBA championship throughout his career, his accomplishments on the court are still remembered and celebrated.
How Did Fans React to Anthony’s Cover Selection?
Fans shared their approval upon hearing that he had been selected as a cover athlete for a special edition of NBA 2K26. The reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with one fan declaring it the “Greatest cover in 2K history.”
One of the fans commented, “Okay this one tough, elite pose choice”
Okay this one tough, elite pose choice
— HTB ♨️ (@HenryTheBlasian) July 9, 2025
Another fan of the 2K franchise commented, “Greatest cover in 2k history”
Greatest cover in 2k history
— J2 (@J2KK87) July 9, 2025
A third user confirms his purchase of the game, “This the one I’m purchasing”
The former NBA star averaged 22.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists throughout his career. While he’s best known for his time with the New York Knicks, Anthony also made his mark with teams like the Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Portland Trail Blazers.
Despite some fans expressing disapproval that NBA 2K26 chose a retired player to be the face of its superstar edition, Anthony is well-deserving of this position. Many agree that he will be an asset to the game’s popularity and sales.
Some fans were initially disappointed to hear that Gilgeous-Alexander was selected for the official edition cover. However, they may have changed their minds upon learning that Anthony will also be a cover athlete for the special superstar edition.
Fans are left wondering if having Anthony as the cover for NBA 2K26 will help the game’s appeal to the general public. When the game is released in early September, fans will know more about the subject.
