The hype around NBA 2K26 Season 7 is at an all-time high, and for good reason: Jaylen Brunson has officially been named the cover athlete. Not only is this a huge nod to his real-life dominance as a crafty NBA 2k26 MT, undersized guard with elite footwork, but in typical 2K fashion, it also means Brunson brings a brand-new signature stepback to the game. And let's be clear-it's not just flashy. It's gamebreaking.
In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about the Jaylen Brunson stepback, what kind of build you'll need to equip it, how it stacks up against other elite dribble moves, and why it's becoming a meta-defining animation.
Jaylen Brunson: The Face of Season 7
2K's choice to spotlight Jaylen Brunson in Season 7 is a refreshing pivot. While previous seasons leaned into high-flyers or shooters like Stephen Curry and Zach LaVine, Brunson brings a different flavor to the table-technical mastery, sharp footwork, and deceptive control. The game now mirrors that by giving him a stepback animation that is easily one of the most powerful tools for ballhandlers.
And like every featured cover athlete, Brunson isn't just a cosmetic addition-he comes with new signature dribbles, a custom stepback, and a unique jump shot release. Whether you're playing Park, Pro-Am, or trying to dominate the Rumble on the K, his sigs are changing the way guards approach scoring.
The Jaylen Brunson Stepback: A New Meta?
The newly introduced Jaylen Brunson stepback is already turning heads. If you were a fan of the John Wall or Stephen Curry stepbacks from NBA 2K24, you'll notice that Brunson's animation feels like a polished evolution of both-smooth, fast, and incredibly effective at creating separation.
Here's why it's different:
Requirements: What You Need to Equip It
To use the Brunson stepback, you'll need to be running a ball handle rating of at least 92, possibly higher. This mirrors the requirements for other elite moves like the Stephen Curry escape, which demands a 92+ handle (Curry has a 97). Since Brunson has a 95 ball handle, it's safe to assume you'll need a 92+ ball handle rating to unlock his move.
What does this mean for builds?
Jaylen Brunson Jump Shot: Smooth, but Not Top Tier
Season 7 also introduces Brunson's custom jump shot. With an 86 three-point rating, the requirement to equip it is surprisingly accessible-even for non-shooting builds. It's a fluid, easy-to-time release, great for newer players or those looking to try something different.
However, don't expect it to dethrone top-tier jump shot bases like:
The new Rumble on the K event gave players an opportunity to test out Season 7 mechanics in live gameplay. SG's video showcases several intense matchups, many of which highlight the power of Brunson's new sigs.
Key gameplay takeaways:
Strategy Tips: How to Abuse the Brunson Stepback
If you want to get the most out of Jaylen Brunson's new move, here are some pro-level tips:
1.Use it in transition - Catch defenders off guard before they're set.
2.Combo it with quick stops - Confuse defenders by mixing fast brakes with delayed stepbacks.
3.Chain it into passes - Don't be afraid to bait help defense, then dot the corner.
4.Crab defenders with it - Use the stepback into a hesitation or spin to trap them on your hip.
5.Burn help defense - When the center steps up on screens, use the stepback to delay, then hit the roll or pop.
Limitations: It's Not All Sunshine
While the Brunson stepback is elite, it has a few drawbacks:
Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer for ISO Guards
Season 7 of NBA 2K26 might go down as one of the most impactful updates yet-not because of new cosmetics or events-but because of how meta-defining Brunson's stepback is. It gives smaller guards a new tool to create space without relying purely on speed boosts or glitchy dribbles.
In a game where spacing Buy 2K MT, timing, and dribble IQ separate the comp from the casuals, having a stepback this powerful is a major win for ISO creators.
Whether you're in the Park, wrecking in Pro-Am, or running events like Rumble on the K, Brunson's signature move is the next evolution of guard play.
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