NBA 2K7 actually marked the second straight year that Shaq was on the cover, which first happened in NBA 2K6. He joined Allen Iverson as the only two players to have multiple solo covers in the same year. The praise was very high on the basis of elements like the sound gameplay, presentation, and 2K22 MT the soundtrack. There were some issues with the controls which made it feel like the previous one. It was not really done to make it better. This might not be a big thing but the menu layout was heavily criticized as well, with some calling them unappealing.

Kobe Bryant, in NBA 2K10 is the most famous player to grace the cover of any of these games. It was a significant entry in the series because it had one primary reason. It was the installment to mark the debut of the MyPlayer mode, which remains a favorite over a decade more. Of course, the mode had some kinks to work out but it was still an extremely well-received addition to the franchise. Summer League and Doris Burke as a sideline reporter were very welcome additions. Unfortunately, there were a few technical issues with the game, particularly after its release.

The ESPN license was added to the series in a significant manner when the series launched ESPN NBA Basketball before ESPN NBA 2K5 made its debut. This was an historic entry since it was the final NBA game SEGA released before it was sold. The ESPN presentation was, in fact, the show-stealer . However, the game was cancelled after this one. Ben Wallace was the first player to cover the game and was Allen Iverson's very first. The game had modes like 24/7 and Association . Both received mixed reviews. The game's gameplay was amazing and it only had a $20 price mark, which was a great value.

Four games are tied, with an 87-rated rating. NBA 2K14 through 2K16 all scored the same, which helped show the consistency of the franchise. 2K14 included the LeBron James: Path to Greatness mode, Euroleague teams, and an incredible soundtrack. 2K15 was not a lot of innovation, but it was a great addition to what was successful. 2K16 was significant in the way it introduced the concept of customizing MyLeague through things like the relocation of Cheap NBA 2K22 MT Coins franchises. It also allowed players to get the feel for creating totally individual leagues. In this era, MyCareer mode transform into a truly unique experience.