LeBron James has perhaps the most iconic pre-game routine in NBA history – the famous chalk toss. NBA 2K, in its bid to bring forth more realism with each installment, added James’ chalk toss to the game in 2K11.
To promote 2K27, a clip showcasing the animation for the toss was released. Unfortunately for NBA 2K developers, fans aren’t exactly loving the snippet.
Fans Roast NBA 2K For Their ‘LeBron James Chalk Toss’ Animation
Fans got a first look at James in his Philadelphia 76ers threads on NBA 2K27. The clip showcased the 41-year-old performing the iconic chalk toss.
First look at LeBron doing the chalk toss in Sixers gear in NBA2K27.
Philly is really going to appreciate this. pic.twitter.com/g32wfNIeQn
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) August 28, 2026
The pre-game ritual began in his rookie season in 2003. It started as a practical way to dry his hands and get a better grip on the ball, but the theatrics made it a staple for years.
Given the ritual’s iconic nature, the NBA world expected more from NBA 2K. Clearly, they did not deliver in the eyes of fans, who were livid and took to X to express their frustration.
“Trash,” said one blunt user on X.
Trash https://t.co/nrLNq43MPB
— Keyshaunn ‼️ (@KeyyFrom410) August 28, 2026
Another said, “This looks like some [expletive] from PlayStation 3.”
This looks like some shit from PlayStation 3. 👀 🤯🤦 https://t.co/mwAfUXwzxj
— South Philly Static (@PhillyStatic) August 28, 2026
“The graphics are noticeably worse,” said another X user.
One fan shared a similar sentiment about the graphics, saying, “Graphics haven’t changed in 10 business years,” and followed up with a ‘trash can’ emoji.
Graphics haven’t changed in 10 business years. 🚮 https://t.co/SuEdU6luFM
— Jay (@Jakridge13) August 28, 2026
Another simply asked an open-ended question to other X users, saying, “Am I tweaking or does this look terrible?”
NBA 2K27 reportedly uses enhanced next-generation visual tech powered by ProPLAY technology. But it’s clear that fans aren’t too excited to see these graphics on a game made for the 2026-27 season after nearly 30 years of NBA 2K games.
It isn’t all doom and gloom, however, as NBA players seem to love 2K regardless of what the general consensus is for the game.
MORE: NBA Analyst Argues LeBron James Was Snubbed For Multiple Finals MVP Awards
Lonzo Ball recently authored a tweet saying, “People who think 2K suck really just [expletive] lol.”
NBA 2K27 is set to release to the general public on Friday, Sep. 4, 2026. Perhaps the pre-game ritual looks better in-game than it did in this online clip.
