Cade Cunningham‘s chance to appear on the NBA 2K cover has yet to arrive, but a graphic designer has already envisioned what that moment could look like. As Cunningham continues to improve his performance with the Detroit Pistons, the prospect of him becoming the face of NBA 2K26 grows stronger. His ongoing development and commitment to the team highlight why the conversation around a Cunningham NBA 2K26 cover is gaining momentum.
After facing health issues and criticism early in his career, Cunningham has solidified his role with the Pistons. Now in his third season, he has shown promising statistics that reflect his rising impact in the league.
Progress and Commitment Amid Early Career Challenges
When Cade Cunningham entered the NBA as the No. 1 overall pick, expectations were high, but his start was rocky. Injuries limited his game time, and Detroit struggled to find success as a team. Despite the Pistons finishing with a 14-68 record in his third season, Cunningham’s individual performance improved markedly, playing 61 games and averaging 23 points, four rebounds, and eight assists.
Speculation about Cunningham requesting a trade surfaced due to Detroit’s record, but he chose to stay. The team extended a long-term contract, signaling mutual faith between the player and organization. This decision appears to be paying off, as Cunningham delivered a career-best season in 2024-2025.
That year, he nearly averaged a double-double with 26 points, nine assists, and six rebounds per game, accompanied by solid shooting percentages of 47% from the field and 36% beyond the arc. His performance earned him his first All-Star selection, an All-NBA team nod, and recognition as a top-10 MVP contender, further solidifying his importance to the Pistons and the league.
Current NBA Cover Holder and Future Prospects
This season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the NBA’s reigning MVP, is the cover athlete for NBA 2K25. SGA’s victory was a breakthrough moment, as he topped Nikola Jokic to claim MVP honors and led the Oklahoma City Thunder to an NBA Finals championship. His rise and accomplishments make him a natural choice for the cover this year.
With Gilgeous-Alexander holding the spotlight now, attention is shifting toward which player will represent NBA 2K26. Cade Cunningham’s ongoing growth and the Pistons’ investment in him position him as a leading candidate. Should he sustain or improve his performance in the coming seasons, the opportunity to feature on the game’s cover will likely follow.
Significance of Cunningham’s Role in the Pistons’ Future
Remaining with Detroit and signing a long-term contract indicates Cunningham’s dedication to helping the franchise rebuild and compete. This loyalty and improvement combine to increase his profile in the NBA community and fans alike. Being recognized on the cover of NBA 2K is emblematic of a player’s rising stature, and Cunningham’s trajectory suggests that honor may be imminent.
His evolving presence on the court, highlighted by an All-Star designation and All-NBA recognition, marks him as a centerpiece for the Pistons. As the team continues to develop around him, Cunningham’s performance will be a key factor in Detroit’s success in upcoming seasons. If he continues on this path, the Cade Cunningham NBA 2K26 cover could become a reality that captures his breakthrough both on the virtual game platform and in professional basketball.