NBA The Run: Wave One Hands-On - Legends + New Tricks + Same Need to Pass the Rock

NBA THE RUN has officially entered Wave One, bringing the 2000s Legends DLC along with a healthy batch of updates that make the game more digestible, a little more flexible and... in some areas, a lot more enjoyable.

But let me get something out of the way real quick... no update can make your teammates play better.

Teamwork — and eliminating that ball-hoggish desire to dribble the air out of the ball while somebody is standing wide open... is still very much up to the people trying to pull off that dub (no matter the game).

The new Practice Mode helps, but I'd actually like to see the developers take that idea a little further. If drills aren't going to be part of the experience, there should at least be some advice tucked in there to put certain bad habits on front street. 

A drill system could be even better though. Instead of simply running up the court and shooting just to complete an objective, players could be required to run their position correctly, move the ball and make the right... PASS.

It should be obvious, but if your teammate is standing there wide open... Toss him the rock!

The hoop isn't going anywhere, but the attempt could be a waste with an avoidable steal! Now, what better way to tell you about NBA THE RUN's Wave One DLC and updates than to actually show you?

Below is nearly an hour of gameplay and commentary covering the new additions in action.

 What's New in Wave One? 

2000s Legends

• Allen Iverson

• Vince Carter

• Tracy McGrady

• Kevin Garnett

• Dirk Nowitzki

• Stylized character designs

• Signature moves and play styles

• Legends can be earned individually with in-game CRED

• Full Legends DLC available for players who want immediate access

That's a pretty serious starting five of names to kick this thing off! And if this really is only Wave One, you already know where my mind goes. How deep is this roster eventually going to get? Not sure, but I'm excited about the possibilities. I'd actually make the player selection screen look more like a fighting game selection screen based on the growth of players.

Also, Play by Play Studios... I'm just going to slide this onto the table while nobody is looking:

Dennis Rodman. (Thanks in advance!)

Practice Mode

• Play against AI opponents

• Select different courts

• Select different rulesets

• Learn player movement

• Practice shooting

• Work on positioning

• Learn alley-oop setups

• Learn how to pass

Did I mention passing? Just checking... because Practice Mode gives players an opportunity to get familiar with the mechanics before stepping online, and that's important in a game where three people need to function like an actual team. Use it! (Please!)

Learn how to get open. Learn how to create a good shot instead of forcing one. Learn how alley-oops work. Learn where you should be on the floor... and for the love of basketball... know how to pass.

New Camera Angles

• Drive Cam

• Drive Flip Cam

• New perspective behind the action

• Better view of spacing

• Easier look at passing opportunities

• Another way to experience the game

The new cameras are one of those additions that may sound small on paper but can make a noticeable difference once you're actually playing.

They give NBA THE RUN another feel depending on how you prefer to see the court, and that makes an already fast-paced game even easier to jump into.

Dyckman NYC

• New court

• Daytime variation

• Tournament variation

• More streetball atmosphere

NBA THE RUN already leans heavily into that arcade streetball personality, so adding Dyckman feels right at home.

More courts also mean more visual variety, which is never a bad thing when you're going to be running these games repeatedly.

Custom Matches

• Private matches

• Play with friends

• Play against friends

• Choose your court

• Choose your ruleset

This is another welcome addition because sometimes you don't want matchmaking deciding the evening for you.

Sometimes you want to grab your people, pick your setup and settle things yourselves.

Preferably with passing.

Gameplay Updates

• Reduced goaltending

• New standing dunks

• New driving layups

• Additional advanced moves

• Continued player tuning

• AI improvements

These changes help NBA THE RUN continue moving in the right direction without changing what the game fundamentally is. It's still quick with that arcade feel.

It's still designed around getting you into the action without requiring the time commitment of a full basketball sim.

Additional Content

• New dunks

• New taunts

• New music

• Licensed tracks

• Championship Belt rewards

• More unlockables and progression

And this is where the replay value starts... creeping up.

You don't necessarily have to spend money out of pocket to unlock everything. You can put in the work, earn CRED and gain access to certain content that way. Other items also require specific levels before you can access them, including different dunks. That means there's actually something waiting for you beyond the next match. So replay value is through the roof (of the stadium).

 When Everybody Understands the Assignment 

When NBA THE RUN matches are firing on all cylinders, the experience is awesome. I'm not saying that simply because you walked away with a W (although it does help).

Mainly... It's the feeling you get when everybody understands the assignment. The frustration evaporates and the fun replaces it when people are moving and passing. Somebody makes the extra pass instead of forcing a contested shot.

A teammate cuts... you hit them and a bucket seals the deal of a close game. Now we're playing basketball, even if you take the L... that makes you want to get back in and try again.

I can easily recommend this as a fast-paced alternative to NBA 2K, especially now that the additional camera angles and other updates have expanded the experience. Owning NBA 2K doesn't make NBA THE RUN some sort of waste either.

The same way a game like NBA Playgrounds 2 could exist alongside a simulation, this gives basketball fans another flavor.

If basketball games are primarily what you play, exercise your options within the genre. You don't have to eat the same meal every night just because Tex Mex is your favorite food. Right?

 The Players Are Still Here 

One thing NBA THE RUN has going for it also is that the player base has been present since launch.

Finding someone to play with hasn't been a problem during my time with the game, and cross-play helps tremendously. Just... make sure... you're ready... before you jump on that court. Practice setting up alley-oops... know how to get open... know how to prepare and set up a clean shot.

Understand spacing... know how to pass.... know how to pass, and... (I feel like I'm forgetting something), oh yeah, know how to pass!

NBA THE RUN serves up just enough gameplay when you're pressed for time, want a few rounds of arcade basketball before bed or simply don't have the time to sit through a full-fledged basketball simulation.

It doesn't have to be the alternative to another game you have though, if this kind of fast-moving 3-on-3 basketball is simply your thing, that's reason enough to step onto the court.

NBA THE RUN is available on Steam for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with cross-play keeping everybody in the mix. Game on!

 + Sophi 

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NBA THE RUN Is Taking Its Shot at Arcade Basketball Greatness... will they Succeed?

The modern sports gaming landscape is packed with simulation experiences that strive for realism, but there's always been something special about arcade basketball. The oversized dunks, the fast-paced action, the larger-than-life personalities, and the ability to jump into a game with friends and immediately have fun are what helped define classics that players still talk about decades later.

That's exactly the space NBA THE RUN is aiming to occupy, and if the newly revealed roadmap is any indication, the team behind the game is showing no signs of slowing down.

In fact, they're making it clear that launch day was only the opening tip-off.

"We're committed to making a legendary game and evolving NBA THE RUN over time – we've said this from the jump," the developers stated while unveiling their post-launch plans. While they admit they aren't ready to reveal every detail they're working on, what they've shared paints a picture of a game that plans to keep growing throughout Summer of Gaming and well into 2027.

 Building Momentum With Today's 3-Point Shot 

Before players even reach the major content drops scheduled for later this summer, the development team is delivering another update focused on stability, gameplay tuning, and quality-of-life improvements. Hopefully it's nothing but net.

The latest patch tackles issues that could impact the overall experience, including crashes tied to stat reporting and soft lock situations involving simultaneous forfeits. The update also introduces improvements to KO Solos, targeted player switching, front-end navigation, audio polish, and gameplay balancing.

Perhaps most importantly, the developers continue refining ruleset rarity to create more variety from match to match. For a competitive arcade experience that thrives on unpredictability and excitement, keeping gameplay fresh is essential.

It's another sign that the team isn't simply adding content—they're actively refining the foundation underneath it.

 July's Update Is Just the Warm-Up 

The first major content drop arrives in July.

While details remain limited, players can expect three new NBA stars to join the roster.

The developers teased the announcement with a playful question: "Is it feeling drafty in here?"

Whether that hint points toward recent draft selections or another surprise entirely remains to be seen, but adding new players so soon after launch demonstrates a commitment to keeping the roster evolving alongside the community.

For newcomers considering their first trip onto the court, July may be an ideal time to... jump in.

August is where things really start getting interesting.

NBA THE RUN's first official season, Summer Heat, launches in August and extends into September. The development team says they've been gathering community feedback and are working to make the season a major step forward for the game.

"We've gathered up a lot of community feedback and we're tackling as much as we can for this Season – we want to make this big."

If the planned features arrive as expected, they may accomplish exactly that.

One of the most requested additions is the new Drive Camera. Rather than presenting the action from the existing viewpoint, this camera angle shoots down the court to create a more modern basketball gaming feel.

For players who grew up with classic arcade basketball but appreciate contemporary presentation, this could be one of the most impactful additions coming this year.

Then there's the Summer Heat Championship Belt.

Instead of simply grinding matches for stats, players will have a visual symbol of their accomplishments that evolves throughout the season. In true arcade fashion, it's designed to be shown off.

The game is also receiving a Communication Wheel that allows players to celebrate, react, and interact using quick emoji-based responses after completing a Run.

While simple on the surface, features like this help create memorable moments between teammates and rivals alike.

 More Ways to Play 

Summer Heat isn't just about cosmetic rewards.

The upcoming Practice Mode may become one of the most valuable additions for dedicated players. This is something we recommended because... ball hogs need to understand that you can't be effective while ignoring your team. I've been bumped out of tournaments more than once because of ball hogs, so... this will be awesome.

Rather than waiting for specific courts or rulesets to appear naturally, players will be able to practice on any court or ruleset of their choice in either Solo or Squad play.

Want to master Triple Threat strategies with friends?

This mode is being built specifically for that purpose.

The game is also expanding its ruleset lineup with two new additions.

Block Party rewards defense by removing a point from opponents every time a player records a block.

Meanwhile, All the Fire adds an extra point whenever a fire shot connects.

Combined with ongoing balancing adjustments, these additions should create even more variety during online sessions.

 New Courts, New Rewards, New Reasons to Return 

No arcade sports game survives without fresh content, and... Summer Heat appears ready to deliver.

Players can look forward to a brand-new New York City court inspired by basketball culture, complete with both daytime and tournament variants.

The in-game shop is also receiving additional jerseys, dunks, taunts, banners, badges, and other customization options.

The developers are even targeting leaderboards as a stretch goal for the season.

The appeal is obvious.

Who doesn't want to know how they compare against friends—or the self-proclaimed GOATs of The Run?

 Looking Beyond Summer 

The roadmap becomes less specific after Summer Heat, but that's hardly a bad thing.

The team has already confirmed that new seasons will continue arriving every two to three months, bringing additional players, features, modes, rulesets, and gameplay improvements.

Several highly requested features are also actively being explored.

Ranked play and ladders remain on the roadmap for later this year, potentially giving competitive players an official progression path.

Voice chat is another priority, allowing teammates to coordinate strategies while giving rivals an opportunity to engage in a little friendly trash talk.

Then there's perhaps the most ambitious feature of all.

Campaign Mode.

The developers revealed they are working on a campaign experience playable solo, locally with friends, or online. They're also being realistic about the timeline... something we urge gamers to acknowledge (or expect the results of a rush job).

Current plans place the mode in 2027, but if executed properly, it could transform NBA THE RUN from a multiplayer-focused arcade experience into something far more expansive.

 A Small Team With Big Ambitions 

Perhaps the most encouraging part of the roadmap isn't any single feature.

It's the attitude behind it.

"Hopefully you're as excited as we are for what's in store for Year One of NBA THE RUN. We may be a small team, but we've got a ton of passion for this game and community."

That's a message arcade basketball fans have heard before from some of the genre's most beloved developers.

NBA THE RUN isn't trying to become a one-and-done release. It's trying to become a destination.

The combination of regular patches, seasonal content, roster additions, competitive features, community engagement, and a future campaign mode suggests a team that understands what keeps players coming back.

For longtime fans of fast-paced arcade hoops, the future looks promising.

For newcomers searching for a basketball game that prioritizes fun, personality, and pickup-and-play action, now may be the perfect time to lace up and hit the court.

After all, if the roadmap delivers on its promise, NBA THE RUN could spend the next year proving that its biggest shots are still ahead.

NBA THE RUN's available on PS5, Xbox, and Steam. Let's RUN, and don't forget... teamwork!

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NBA THE RUN – Streetball Is Back, Louder and More Electric Than Ever?

When Play by Play Studios said they were “taking it back to the streets,” they meant it. NBA THE RUN, launched June 9, 2026, and it's shaping up to be a nice revival shot at arcade‑style basketball reminiscent of NBA Street. Fast‑paced 3v3 action, iconic real‑world courts, and a roster stacked with NBA superstars all collide in a game built for highlight‑hunters, competitive grinders, and anyone who misses the style of early‑2000s... streetball.

Speaking of Streetball (or Black Basketball as it was called back then), came to life via Edwin E.B. Henderson (the Grandfather of Black Basketball). He was also the first Black male P.E. teacher and introduced his students to the game back in 1904. This took place in Washington D.C., although it's easy to assume it was New York. He actually established a wide scale... Interscholastic Athletic Association as well to have competitive leagues, which is where the Washington 12 Streeters came from. His 12 Streeter team consisted of former Howard University + local YMCA students who washed the competition by going undefeated for a whole season in the Colored Basketball World Championship.

When it comes to New York, I know some of you might be thinking of the Harlem Globetrotters, but... they were only called that by name. It was to tie in the Harlem Renaissance, but they were actually from Chicago... and hit the scene in the 1920s. They didn't play a game in Harlem, NY until the late 1960s!

So I wanted to stop and drop a little about the origin behind streetball. Now let's game! This is my third session with NBA The Run, and we were getting it in... there are some dogs online (vicious):

The game is available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam, with full cross‑play and two editions:

• Standard – $29.99

• Deluxe – $39.99 (includes rookie variants of Curry, Luka, KD + 1000 CRED)

 A Game Built by Hoop Purists 

Play by Play Studios is a small but veteran‑heavy team featuring developers who previously worked on major EA and Visceral titles. Their mission is simple: revive the feel of handcrafted arcade basketball—fluid, stylish, and personality‑driven.

They’ve been transparent about their inspirations, openly calling NBA THE RUN a spiritual successor to the classics. And from the gameplay, they’re not exaggerating.

 What’s New Since the Open Beta 

The team has made sweeping improvements based on community feedback. Here’s everything updated for launch:

Gameplay & Mechanics

• Kyrie Irving added to the roster

• 9 new dribble/style animations for deeper combo chains

• Reduced goaltending frequency near the rim

• Shorter blocking reach for elite shot blockers

• Lower AI shove rates to reduce cheap physicality

• Improved self off‑the‑backboard alley‑oop success

• Slower ball speed off the rim + higher friction for more realistic rebounds

• Polished jumpshot, dive, and general animations

• Revised dribble‑move audio for cleaner feedback

Systems & Stability

• Fixed Rank & XP display issues

• Fixed stat‑swapping and MVP‑swapping bugs

• Tuned player ratings

• Rebalanced rulesets for more variety between rounds

• Fixed end‑of‑game crash tied to stat reporting

These changes directly address the most common beta complaints—especially defensive imbalance, rebounding chaos, and animation inconsistencies. Although there are still some issues with screen transitions and animations at times.

 Gameplay: Fast, Fluid, and Above the Rim 

NBA THE RUN is built around rollback netcode, meaning online play feels snappy and responsive even in cross‑play matches.

Signature Gameplay Pillars

• Explosive dunks and alley‑oops out of spin moves

• Ankle‑breaking dribble chains with new style animations

• Logo‑range shooting for players with deep‑range badges

• Physical defense—dives, steals, shoves, and chase‑downs

• Takeover‑style “In‑The‑Zone” abilities that temporarily unlock elite skills (unlimited stamina, enhanced range, etc.)

The game is intentionally not a simulation. It’s about swagger, momentum, and highlight‑reel moments—without sacrificing competitive depth.

 Modes: Knockout Tournaments Are the Heart of the Game 

The core mode is the online Knockout Tournament, where players compete in escalating rounds across global streetball courts. Win and advance; lose and you’re out. It's just that simple.

Courts include:

• Venice Beach

• Rucker Park (NYC)

• The Tenement (Philippines)

• Dongdan (Beijing)

• Harlem

• And more, including 4 nighttime finals variants designed as championship stages

You can play Solo or Squads, and every match feels like a mini‑event thanks to reactive crowds, stylized lighting, and handcrafted court details.

While its on my mind: One mode I feel is missing is... Practice. Let people get a feel for the game whether or not they're handling the ball. Let them do more than shoot around. Knowing how to play D goes a long way, knowing the value of teamwork and how to pass... goes a long way.

 Roster: 32 NBA Stars at Launch 

The lineup includes:

• LeBron James

• Stephen Curry

• Luka Dončić

• Kevin Durant

• Kyrie Irving

• LaMelo Ball

• Victor Wembanyama

• Joel Embiid

• James Harden

• And more fan favorites

Each player has:

• Unique animations

• Signature abilities (ITZ abilities)

• Strengths tailored to their real‑life playstyle

The Deluxe Edition adds rookie variants for Curry, Luka, and KD.

 Courts: A Love Letter to Streetball 

Play by Play didn’t just recreate courts—they built atmospheres:

• Venice Beach Finals – boardwalk lights, neon reflections, and a festival‑like crowd

• Rucker Park at night – gritty, loud, and packed with spectators leaning over the fence

• Dongdan (Beijing) – considered the “Holy Land” of Chinese streetball, with crowds reacting to every move

Each court has its own vibe, lighting, and crowd behavior, making every tournament feel like a world tour.

 Why NBA THE RUN Matters 

Arcade basketball has been dormant for years. Simulation titles dominate the market, but players have been craving something different—something fun, fast, and expressive.

NBA THE RUN fills that gap with:

• Rollback netcode for competitive reliability

• Stylized visuals that stand apart from sim-heavy games

• A focus on creativity and flair

• A global streetball identity

• A fair price point

Early impressions from creators and competitive players highlight the game’s smooth dribbling, responsive controls, and high replay value thanks to its tournament structure.

NBA THE RUN isn’t trying to replace simulation basketball—it’s in another lane (clearly). With its blend of arcade energy, and competitive structure, it’s poised to become the go‑to game for players who want pure fun with real skill expression.

For fans of NBA Street, AND1, or fast‑paced online competition, this might be the most enjoyable arcade basketball release in awhile. Lace up and we'll see you out there. Remember... teamwork! Get the scoop on what's headed to NBA THE RUN (I'm lovin' it!):

NBA THE RUN Is Taking Its Shot at Arcade Basketball Greatness... will they Succeed?

 + Sophi 

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