The upcoming release of NBA 2K26 has generated excitement as the 2K social media team unveiled player ratings in the weeks leading to the launch. Among these, Philadelphia 76ers center Adem Bona drew significant attention by earning a notable rating for shot-blocking. His ranking of sixth in this defensive category, with a rating of 91, caught the eye of Sixers fans and analysts alike, confirming his defensive prowess early in his career. This positioning places Bona alongside other respected shot-blockers like Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively from the Dallas Mavericks and Jonathan Isaac from the Orlando Magic.
Placement Among Elite NBA Shot-Blockers
Bona’s rating in NBA 2K26 situates him just behind several standout centers in the league. Utah Jazz’s Walker Kessler and Portland Trail Blazers’ Donovan Clingan hold slightly higher shot-blocking ratings of 93. Robert Williams III of Portland has a 95 rating, while Oklahoma City Thunder’s Chet Holmgren earns a 97. At the very top is San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, rated at 99, underscoring the level of defensive talent Bona is now grouped with virtually in the game.
This association with some of the best shot-blockers in the NBA is a positive indicator for Bona, who was selected in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft and has already completed his rookie season with the Sixers.
From UCLA Standout to Promising NBA Rookie
Before turning professional, Adem Bona spent two years playing college basketball at UCLA, where he appeared in 66 games and started almost all of them. Averaging 25 minutes per contest, Bona recorded 10 points and six rebounds per game over his collegiate career, with nearly two blocks each game, reflecting his shot-blocking strength. His consistent defensive presence in college basketball set the foundation for his potential at the pro level.
Selected 41st overall by Philadelphia, Bona had initially been expected to serve as a deep reserve, likely spending time in the NBA G League. However, injuries among the Sixers’ big men led to Bona receiving substantial playing time on the main roster.
Rookie Season Performance and Continued Development
In his first NBA season, Bona appeared in 58 games and started 11, playing a key role in the 76ers’ frontcourt rotation. He posted six points per game, shooting at 70 percent from the field, predominantly scoring within the paint. Defensively, Bona averaged four rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game, which helps explain his high defensive rating in NBA 2K26. His ability to contribute effectively on both ends of the floor has been a promising glimpse of his potential impact going forward.
Looking Ahead to the 2024–2025 Season and Role on the Sixers
Moving into the next NBA season, Bona is expected to compete for minutes behind franchise star Joel Embiid, alongside veteran Andre Drummond. Embiid’s health will largely dictate how much playing time Bona receives, but he is poised to once again earn significant opportunities when Embiid is sidelined. This competition could offer Bona a chance to solidify his role and continue to develop his game at the highest level.
Given his shot-blocking skillset and the trust he has earned from the coaching staff, Bona’s standing within the team could grow, making him a valuable piece for the Sixers’ defensive schemes moving forward.