For a long time, players in NBA 2K23 have been creating their own unique jump shots using their visual judgment and personal experiences. However, determining the "best" jump shot has always been a subject of debate, considering the arguments surrounding statistics, player preferences, and the belief that no one has the perfect answer.
Fortunately, NBA 2K23 has taken a step forward by revealing the rankings of each component of the jump shot through a grading system. This allows players to systematically identify the top jump shooters for each position. The game offers three height ranges, and below are the custom jump shots for each one.
Under 6'5"
As of June 27th, 2023, it seems that all potential animations have been unlocked throughout the various in-game seasons. Each NBA season brings a fresh batch of exciting in-game animations. Now that the NBA is in its offseason and there haven't been any recent additions to the animations, it is the perfect time to create a jump shot, as it is unlikely that anything new will be introduced that could enhance the already exceptional jump shots. The fundamental concept of shooting remains unchanged: players need a shot that bypasses the defense, has a high release point, is quick, and can be timed accurately. This requirement applies to guards, forwards, and big men alike. Even the standard shots taken by NBA legends pale in comparison to a customized jump shot.
Base | Stephen Curry |
Upper Release 1 | Stephen Curry |
Upper Release 2 | Jason Kidd |
Release Speed | 25% |
Animation Blending | 60% - 40% |
Release Height | A- |
Defense Immunity | A+ |
Release Speed | A+ |
Timing Impact | A+ |
Not only do shorter players have all the best playmaking badges, but they also have the highest potential for their shot. All three of their best shots have an A- release height, which is considered an irrelevant stat as it only prevents blocks. If the shot is highly contested, it's unlikely to go in anyways. Luckily, shooters beyond the arc do not have to worry about this.
While it is possible to adjust this and achieve an A- in Timing Impact, most gamers would prefer to have the A+ timing instead. The three A+ stats present a nightmare for the opposing defense. Not only does the defense have no effect, but the shot is also instant and as easy to make as possible.
This particular weapon has become a top pick among professional players, and it is expected to remain popular unless it undergoes a significant reduction in power. As the favored choice of shooting guards, its exceptional shooting capabilities have the potential to enable players to surpass the astonishing milestone of scoring 100 points in a single game.
Between 6'5" and 6'10"
Base | Kobe Bryant |
Upper Release 1 | Oscar Robertson |
Upper Release 2 | Oscar Robertson |
Release Speed | 50% |
Animation Blending | 50% - 50% |
Release Height | A- |
Defense Immunity | A+ |
Release Speed | A+ |
Timing Impact | A |
The current height mentioned is specifically designed for the most proficient three-point shooter in the game. By incorporating this customized shooting technique, opposing defenses will be utterly helpless in trying to deter the relentless barrage of shots. The only distinguishing factor between this particular shot and the subsequent one is a marginal drop in timing impact, downgrading from an A+ to an A.
For the additional height, it poses no challenge. Achieving an outstanding release remains effortlessly attainable. The crucial attributes of defense immunity and release speed are both rated at a supreme A+ level.
The fact that forwards can pick up this shot is almost ridiculous, especially considering their additional five inches in physical height compared to the previous shot. A petite forward, supported by a strong team, will easily dominate the league in scoring with this unique shot.
Over 6'10"
Base | Kevin Durant |
Upper Release 1 | Dirk Nowitzki |
Upper Release 2 | Dirk Nowitzki |
Release Speed | 100% |
Animation Blending | 50% - 50% |
Release Height | A- |
Defense Immunity | A |
Release Speed | A+ |
Timing Impact | A |
Once again, there is a solitary marginal decrease between this shot and the shot in the lower height category. Defense immunity is now labeled as "only" an A. This still remains an unprecedented occurrence, particularly considering that everything else is graded at an A- or higher.
If players find themselves with a career as a center in a well-suited city, they have the ability to dominate both the scoring and defense aspects of the game. It becomes somewhat unfair when they possess this shooting advantage that also translates to strong defense and post scoring.
Reaching a perfect A+ in release speed as a player standing at 7'3" is exceptional. This shooting ability for a big man can make the game feel like it is favoring the player, almost as if it is glitched. It is incredibly easy to make successful shots and opponents have no opportunity to block the shot due to the custom setup and inherent height advantage. When combined with the appropriate shooting badges, this stretch big will consistently disrupt an opponent's performance.
NBA 2K23 is available now for PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch.