LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and one of the most iconic athletes in the history of professional sports, has reportedly informed 2K Sports that he will not appear in the upcoming edition of the popular NBA 2K video game franchise—NBA 2K26—unless he receives a 99 overall rating, the highest possible player rating in the game. The move has ignited conversation across both the gaming and basketball communities, with fans, analysts, and fellow players weighing in on the implications of LeBron’s demand.
According to sources close to the situation, LeBron’s team communicated directly with 2K Sports, making it clear that the four-time NBA champion feels he is still performing at an elite level worthy of a 99 rating. Although LeBron has appeared in every iteration of the game since he was drafted first overall in 2003, this would mark the first time he’s leveraged his inclusion against a specific in-game rating.
LeBron, who will turn 41 during the 2025-26 NBA season, remains a force on the court, averaging over 24 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds last season while playing a crucial role for the Los Angeles Lakers. His longevity, basketball IQ, and versatility continue to defy expectations, and his presence remains a major draw for fans and marketers alike. Still, 2K has historically reserved its rare 99 overall rating for players who are either at the absolute peak of their dominance or are represented in special “legend” versions of the game.
While LeBron has hovered in the 96–98 rating range in recent editions of NBA 2K, it’s been several years since he was last given a 99 overall—an honor typically bestowed on younger players at the height of their powers, such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Steph Curry, or Nikola Jokić. LeBron’s argument reportedly centers on the idea that his sustained excellence, impact on the game, and historic achievements should warrant permanent recognition with the highest rating available.
“He’s not asking for a favor,” said one source familiar with the discussions. “He believes he’s earned it—through stats, impact, leadership, and longevity. If there’s anyone who should be a 99 in the twilight of their career, it’s LeBron James.”
The demand has put 2K Sports in a tough position. As a company that prides itself on realism and data-driven ratings, inflating a player’s rating due to a public stance or ultimatum could set a precedent the developers have traditionally avoided. On the other hand, LeBron is arguably the most influential player of his generation and a longtime ambassador for the game. His exclusion from 2K26 would be both a marketing blow and a potential rift with one of their most iconic cover athletes.
Fan reaction has been mixed. Some have supported LeBron’s stance, echoing the belief that his continued dominance—especially at his age—is worthy of a symbolic 99 overall rating.
“Give the man his flowers while he’s still playing,” one fan wrote on X. “If 2K can’t recognize greatness like this, what are we doing?”
Others, however, have criticized the move, arguing that player ratings should be based on current performance and not legacy status.
“LeBron’s a legend, no doubt,” another user posted. “But if he’s not the best player in the league right now, he shouldn’t be a 99. That rating should be earned season by season.”
Some within the gaming world have suggested a compromise: granting LeBron a 99 overall in a special “Legacy Edition” or creating a unique game mode that honors his career with the elite rating, while maintaining the usual rating system in the standard game. This approach would allow 2K to acknowledge LeBron’s place in basketball history without undermining the integrity of their annual ratings process.
2K Sports has not yet made an official comment on the situation, but with the release of NBA 2K26 just months away, decisions will need to be made soon. LeBron’s presence in the game is a major draw, especially among younger players and international audiences, and his absence—should he follow through on the threat—would
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