Enthusiasts of the arcade-style basketball from the NBA Street franchise might find a strong follow-up in NBA The Run, crafted by Play by Play Studios. Scheduled for release on June 9, the title's creation was guided by Mike Young, a key artist from the initial NBA Street games, as detailed in a Game Informer feature dated October 2025.
In contrast to the detailed simulation elements of titles such as NBA 2K26, NBA The Run emphasizes compact 3v3 basketball games with heightened dramatic flair. Participants progress via a four-stage Knockout Tournament across global courts, culminating in a climactic showdown on one of four unique endgame arenas. The experience includes three core options: Knockout Squads for controlling a single teammate in a trio, Knockout Solos for managing an entire squad, and Knockout Friends for designing personalized tournaments. Options span invented personas or a selection exceeding 30 actual NBA stars, including Stephen Curry, Luka Dončić, Kevin Durant, and Joel Embiid.
Originating in 2024 under the name The Run: Got Next, the project evolved significantly after Play by Play Studios secured the authorized NBA partnership, according to Game Informer. While sports titles enjoy peak popularity, the market has seen few fresh arcade-oriented entries, especially those backed by the NBA and NBPA. If development proceeds smoothly, NBA The Run may spark a revival in this niche.
Priced at $30, NBA The Run launches on June 9 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Steam. The Deluxe version, featuring three extra playable athletes and bonus virtual funds, carries a $40 tag.