Developers Respond: Contest System Fixes Coming to NBA 2K26

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Sep 7, 2025 2:02 PM ET

Fans push back on tall builds and weak contests, prompting developers to address system flaws

It’s no secret that the NBA 2K community has been frustrated with how certain builds continue to dominate the floor, and nothing highlights that more than the ongoing ‘7'4 problem.’ Players have shared clips of towering opponents scoring at will, even with heavy contests. The frustration comes when a hand in the face is still read as ‘open’ or barely registers on the shot meter. That gap between what players see and what the game reports has sparked another heated round of debate.

Developers have stepped in to acknowledge the issue, confirming that NBA 2K26’s contest system is under review.

According to NBA 2K News & Intel on X, the team is aware that contest percentages should be registering higher in several situations.

Mike Wang is looking into fixing the Contest System in #NBA2K26 pic.twitter.com/XcBD4vDJJn
— NBA 2K26 News&Intel (@2KIntel) September 7, 2025

One fan voiced the frustration bluntly, writing, ‘C’mon man, he’s in his face for quite a few of this. This is egregious.’ That sentiment echoes what’s been circulating in community clips, including a YouTube video by SimplyGrinding titled This 7'4 STRETCH BIG BUILD is UNSTOPPABLE in NBA 2K26!, which highlights how towering builds can score with ease despite apparent defensive pressure.

The admission has given some players hope, but also reinforced how central this problem remains. Contesting shots has been a longstanding pain point in the series, especially when size and wingspan seem to outweigh smart defensive timing. With patch updates ongoing, developers are promising to deliver changes that will make contests feel more realistic and rewarding. Until then, fans will be watching closely to see if the defense finally holds up against NBA 2K’s tallest threats.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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