how to Pick an NBA Team
How to Pick an NBA Team to Support in 2026 (The Ultimate Guide)
Whether you're a new fan or starting a fresh NBA 2K rebuild, here is how to find your franchise.
The NBA is arguably the most exciting, star-driven sports league on the planet. But if you are new to basketball, staring at a list of 30 franchises can be incredibly intimidating.
Do you jump on the bandwagon of a reigning champion? Do you pick a team with a rich history but a terrible present roster? Or do you adopt an underdog and hope for a Cinderella story?
Choosing your loyalty is a big commitment. Here are three foolproof ways to pick an NBA team to support this season.
1. The "Superstar" Method
The NBA is defined by its players more than its laundry. Many modern fans don't actually root for a specific city; they follow their favorite player wherever they go.
If you love watching gravity-defying dunks, elite three-point shooting, or defensive masterclasses, find the player who embodies that style. Watch a few highlight reels on YouTube. Once you find a player whose game you love, adopt their team. It guarantees you will always be entertained when you tune in.
2. The "Underdog Rebuild" Method
Nobody likes a frontrunner. If you start rooting for a team that just won the Finals, veteran fans might accuse you of jumping on the bandwagon.
Instead, pick a team currently sitting at the bottom of the standings but loaded with young, high-potential draft picks. It might be painful for a season or two, but when that young core finally clicks and makes a playoff run, the payoff is incredibly rewarding. You get to say, "I was here before they were good."
3. The "Leave it to Fate" Method
If you are completely paralyzed by choice, or if you are an NBA 2K player looking for a brand new, unbiased challenge for your next MyNBA franchise mode save, take the decision out of your hands entirely.
Spin the Random NBA Team Generator
Stop overthinking it. Let the basketball gods decide your fate. Click the button below to use our free Random NBA Team wheel. Whoever it lands on is your new squad. No re-spins allowed—embrace the challenge!
🏀 Draft Your Team 🏀4. The "Local Ties" Method
If you don't live in an NBA city, look for secondary connections. Did you go to a specific college? Find out which NBA team drafted your favorite college players. Or, simply pick the franchise that is in the closest geographic proximity or the same time zone as you, making it much easier to watch their games live.
Regardless of how you pick your team, the most important rule is to stick with them. The highs are only sweet if you stick around through the rebuilding years. Grab a jersey, learn the roster, and enjoy the season!