Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who had an exceptional 2023-24 NBA season, was announced as the cover athlete for the upcoming NBA 2K26 game, set to release on September 5. This decision highlights Shai’s remarkable achievements, including leading his team to its first-ever NBA title and securing major individual honors, underscoring his standing as one of the league’s top players.

Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 195 pounds, Gilgeous-Alexander distinguished himself by becoming an NBA All-Star and earning All-NBA First Team honors for the third year in a row. He also joined elite company by capturing the NBA championship, league MVP, Finals MVP, and top scorer titles, a feat achieved only by legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, and Shaquille O’Neal.

Fan Reactions Reveal Discontent Over NBA 2K Cover Choice

Despite SGA’s outstanding season, many NBA fans expressed disapproval on social media regarding his selection as the NBA 2K26 cover athlete. Users voiced disappointment and skepticism, often comparing Gilgeous-Alexander unfavorably to other players they preferred.

One fan stated bluntly, “WE WANTED ANT,” referring to Brooklyn’s star DeAndre “Ant” Jordan. Another warned of the “INCOMING 2K COVER ATHLETE CURSE,” hinting at a superstition among gamers and fans. Others took a sarcastic tone, such as the comment,

“i wonder how much vc i’d have to buy to shoot some free throws,”

and another who added,

“Will he be shooting a free throw on the cover?”

Some criticisms were more direct about Gilgeous-Alexander’s marketability. A Twitter user wrote,

“Dude is so unmarketable and boring. Great player but if he’s the ‘face of the NBA,’ the NBA is in trouble,”

expressing fears about the league’s future appeal. Meanwhile, 2K’s own response to the announcement captured attention, as the company stated on social media,

“So this is what it’s like being on the other side of a Shams tweet. smh,”

referencing sports journalist Shams Charania and garnering thousands of likes.

SGA’s Momentum Continues Beyond the Court

Beyond the backlash, Gilgeous-Alexander’s momentum keeps building. His first signature shoe, the Converse Shai 001, is slated for a fall release, marking a significant milestone in his career. Additionally, on July 1, he signed a historic contract extension with the Thunder worth $285 million over four years, reflecting the franchise’s commitment to their star player.

NBA 2K covers have traditionally highlighted the league’s highest-profile athletes, featuring stars such as Jayson Tatum, Kobe Bryant, Devin Booker, Luka Doncic, Zion Williamson, and Damian Lillard. Gilgeous-Alexander’s inclusion signals his rise among basketball’s elite, despite the divided opinions among the fanbase.

What the Cover Means for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the NBA

The choice of Gilgeous-Alexander as the NBA 2K26 cover athlete symbolizes a shift in spotlight toward younger talent leading their franchises to success. While fan frustration highlights ongoing debates about marketability and player preference, SGA’s accolades and growing profile suggest he is poised to become a marquee figure in the sport.

As his career advances with new endorsements and a record deal, the impact of this recognition could influence the NBA’s image moving forward, shaping perceptions of who best represents today’s basketball landscape.