Although the ratings may not always perfectly reflect a player’s real-life skill or performance, one aspect of the NBA 2K series that consistently generates buzz and sparks debate is its Ratings system, which is based on the previous NBA season.
With NBA 2K26 set to release in just a week, anticipation is building—not just among gamers, but also among the NBA players themselves, eager to see how they’ve been rated in the latest installment. One such player is the Boston Celtics’ Derrick White, who had a 78 overall rating in the 2021-2022 season when he played for the San Antonio Spurs and the same 78 rating during his first season with the Celtics in 2022-2023.
Derrick White, who became the first point guard in NBA history to lead a championship team in playoff blocks, was a crucial part of the Celtics’ 2024 title run—not just for his elite defense, but for his outstanding two-way play. Offensively, he consistently delivered with timely scoring, smart playmaking, and clutch shot-making. This elevated level of performance was reflected in NBA 2K25, where he earned an 86 overall rating. Now, heading into the new season, White sees that number rise to an 87 in NBA 2K26—a rating he’s content with as he looks to build on a successful year.
“Not bad, I’ll take it,” Derrick White said on a recent episode of the White Noise podcast. Acknowledging that players are often frustrated with their NBA 2K ratings, White said he’s choosing to take his in stride and simply enjoy the game. “I remember, early in my career, I used to get frustrated. You’d look at who’s rated around you and think, [he’s better than what he’s rated or another player’s rated]… and I’m sure there are people doing the same thing to me now,” he added. “So I’ll take the 87 and appreciate it.”
White also expressed his appreciation for the development process behind NBA 2K26, which included having his face scanned by the game’s developers.
“That was awesome—I was so excited,” White said. “You go in, they do a full face scan, and try to make it as realistic as possible.”
So, will White be making virtual clutch plays as himself in NBA 2K26 to show off that 87 rating? Probably not.
“2K? I probably won’t play it,” White admitted. “But I do appreciate it. It’s just really cool to be part of the game—to have your own character that you didn’t create yourself.”
What do you think of Derrick White’s reaction to his NBA 2K26 rating? Do you feel his 87 overall accurately reflects his real-life skills? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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