NBA 2K26 Guide: MyTeam Best Cards in All Positions

Building a competitive MyTeam lineup doesn't require emptying your wallet on impossible pulls. While those shiny Dark Matter cards look tempting, most players will never see them in their collection. This guide focuses on the most effective cards you can actually obtain, whether through grinding, smart auction house moves, or strategic pack openings. We'll break down the top performers at each position, emphasizing accessibility and real-world value over theoretical perfection.

What Makes a Card "Best" in MyTeam?

When evaluating cards for competitive play, several factors matter more than overall rating. Size plays a huge role in the meta, and a 6'6" point guard will usually outperform a 6'2" speedster in most situations. Defensive capabilities often separate good cards from great ones, especially with this year's emphasis on perimeter defense. Badge packages can turn average cards into superstars, while signature animations create those game-breaking moments that decide close matches.

Point Guards

NBA 2K26 Guide: MyTeam Best Cards in All Positions

Michael Carter-Williams

Standing at 6'6" with a 6'7" wingspan, Carter-Williams brings elite size to the point guard position. His Kyrie dribble style creates separation, while Hall of Fame Dimer and Unlockable badges make him a complete floor general.

Jason Kidd 

Jason Kidd deserves special attention as the best free point guard available. His 6'4" frame with 6'8" wingspan creates matchup nightmares, while his 94 speed and 97 agility keep pace with smaller guards. The defensive badges make him nearly unpluckable, and his jump shot improved significantly from previous years.

Ja Morant

Ja Morant brings the most explosive offense with signature animations that create separation effortlessly. His slashing ability generates easy buckets, though the 6'2" height becomes problematic against elite competition.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

At 6'6" with a massive 6'11" wingspan, SGA offers the perfect blend of size and skill. His defensive capabilities surpass Morant while maintaining excellent offensive production.

Shooting Guards

NBA 2K26 Guide: MyTeam Best Cards in All Positions

Scottie Pippen

Scottie Pippen tops the position when budget isn't a concern. His behind-the-back dribble creates glitchy animations, while the defensive ratings make him arguably the best perimeter defender in the game.

Klay Thompson

Klay Thompson remains the premier free option at level 40. Both the standard and Pro Pass versions offer identical performance - only the card art differs. His shooting mechanics feel smooth, and the defensive capabilities suit the current meta perfectly.

Bruce Bowen

Bruce Bowen stands out as the most accessible elite option. Every Pro Pass holder gets him guaranteed at level 37, making him the most common top-tier shooting guard. His 6'7" frame with 6'11" wingspan creates lockdown defense, while the 94 three-point rating and Hall of Fame Limitless badge provide consistent scoring.

Nicolas Batum

A rare auction house find, Batum provides versatility with solid shooting and defensive capabilities across multiple positions.

Danny Green

Green's defensive specialization makes him invaluable against elite perimeter threats. His 94 three-point rating ensures consistent shooting while locking down opposing scorers.

Small Forwards

NBA 2K26 Guide: MyTeam Best Cards in All Positions

Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard dominates when available, combining elite defense with solid offensive tools. His signature defensive animations and Kawhi Dribble Style create unique advantages, though the auction house price reflects his premium status.

Glen Rice

Glen Rice provides the best free option, offering legitimate top-tier performance without spending. His shooting mechanics feel consistent, and the defensive tools exceed expectations for a reward card.

Jonathan Isaac

At 6'10" with a 7'2" wingspan, Isaac dominates through size and defensive versatility. His 90 driving dunk creates explosive finishing opportunities.

Danny Granger

Granger provides solid production as the Series 1 Eastern Conference reward, offering better stamina management than Durant.

Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant brings elite offense but suffers from concerning stamina issues. His 76 stamina rating means careful rotation management - he can't handle primary ball-handling duties for extended periods.

Power Forwards

NBA 2K26 Guide: MyTeam Best Cards in All Positions

Kevin Garnett

Kevin Garnett leads the position with complete two-way excellence. His combination of size, speed, and badge package makes him the most complete power forward available, though the price tag matches his elite status.

Jack Sikma

Jack Sikma offers surprising value as a budget alternative. His jump shot mechanics feel incredibly smooth, and some players report near-perfect shooting percentages in testing. The defensive tools complement his offensive capabilities perfectly.

Serge Ibaka

Serge Ibaka is a strong reward for players aiming to complete collections. By locking in the Western Conference Series 1 sets, you can unlock this dependable two-way player with standout defensive ratings.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

JJJ's defensive prowess at 6'10" creates rim protection while maintaining perimeter mobility for modern basketball.

Pascal Siakam

Siakam's 6'8" frame with 7'3" wingspan provides excellent versatility. His well-rounded skill set makes him effective across multiple game modes.

Centers

NBA 2K26 Guide: MyTeam Best Cards in All Positions

Joel Embiid

Joel Embiid represents the perfect modern center when available. His 89 speed allows perimeter switching, while the 91 three-point rating stretches defenses. The 12 Hall of Fame badges at launch demonstrate his premium status.

Dikembe Mutombo

Dikembe Mutombo anchors traditional lineups with elite rim protection. His 7'2" frame and 7'7" wingspan generate consistent blocks and alterations. The inability to shoot threes limits offensive versatility but creates dominant interior presence.

Kevin Garnett

Garnett can effectively play center in smaller lineups, providing unique advantages through their skill sets.

Jack Sikma

Combines a smooth, reliable jump shot with strong rebounding and defensive tools, making him effective on both ends of the floor. His shooting range also helps stretch the defense, giving your offense more spacing options.

DeAndre Ayton

DeAndre Ayton offers the most accessible quality option. His 7'0" frame with 7'4" wingspan provides solid rim protection, while the 80 speed allows adequate perimeter coverage.

If you’re planning ahead, be sure to explore more of our NBA 2K26 guides, packed with strategies and tips to support your journey. You can also browse our game list to discover titles that may catch your interest.