NBA 2K26 Confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2 Release: Launch Details and Cover Athlete Revealed

2K Games has officially announced that NBA 2K26, the latest installment in its best-selling basketball simulation series, is set to launch on the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 this fall.

This confirmation further strengthens the third-party support for Nintendo’s new hybrid console, as the company continues championing its commitment to a diverse and robust games lineup for both core gamers and sports enthusiasts. Earlier today, both 2K Games and Nintendo simultaneously revealed the news across their social media channels, ensuring fans could mark their calendars for the upcoming release.

Notably, NBA 2K26 will feature Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the dynamic guard from the Oklahoma City Thunder, as the cover athlete for this year’s edition.

Nintendo also confirmed pre-orders for the game will be available starting later this week via the Nintendo eShop and participating retailers. The NBA 2K franchise, developed by Visual Concepts and published by 2K, has long been a staple for sports gaming fans.

By bringing NBA 2K26 to Nintendo Switch 2, 2K Games demonstrates its ongoing investment in Nintendo’s platforms.

This follows a trend of major announcements during the initial presentation of the Switch 2, where 2K confirmed its intent to support the platform with multiple big-budget releases. WWE 2K25, another 2K sports title, is also slated for the Switch 2, with a launch date set for July 23, 2025.

This marks the first time WWE’s flagship simulation franchise will be available on Nintendo’s new hardware, alongside other notable 2K properties including Civilization VII and the much-awaited Borderlands 4. Since its inception, the NBA 2K series has consistently achieved impressive sales milestones and critical acclaim for its realistic gameplay, deep franchise modes, and authentic presentation.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has rapidly ascended to NBA superstardom with the Oklahoma City Thunder, embodies the next generation of basketball excellence and makes for a fitting face of NBA 2K26.

His selection as cover athlete reflects both his on-court achievements and growing influence among fans globally. With the Nintendo Switch 2’s enhanced hardware capabilities and flexible play options—enabling gaming on the go and at home—NBA 2K26 is expected to deliver an improved experience for players.

Details regarding specific new features, graphical enhancements, or cross-platform functionality are expected to be revealed as the release date approaches. NBA 2K26 is scheduled for release on Nintendo Switch 2 in fall 2025.

As 2K Games expands its lineup for Nintendo’s next-generation hardware, fans can look forward to a steady stream of AAA titles coming to the platform.

Stay tuned for further updates on NBA 2K26 and forthcoming Nintendo eShop pre-order opportunities.

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