Southwest Summary

In the sun-soaked battlegrounds of the Southwest NSL division, where the hardwood sizzles and the competition simmers, a fierce rivalry unfolds like a drama in the desert. Teams clash like titans, each game a showdown beneath the blazing sun, where victory is not just a triumph on the scoreboard but a claim to dominance in the heart of hoops territory. The court becomes a stage for strategic ballet, where crossovers and slam dunks are the choreography of rivalry, and every three-pointer is a shot fired in the battle for regional supremacy. In this desert storm of basketball prowess, teams don't just play; they engage in a symphony of skill, a rivalry that echoes through the canyons and resonates in the cheers of fans clad in team colors. Welcome to the Southwest division, where the competition is as hot as the Texan sun and the stakes are higher than the towering cacti that watch over the court.

Team Time 

The San Antonio Spurs look to go back-to-back in the upcoming season. But the Southwest has a fierce level of talent all around. Houston has already shown themselves to be a force to be reckoned with. They have a sublime trio, with the current NBA Finals MVP, and two of the most exciting youngsters who have progressed through the 2K maturation process. Not to be forgotten, the Memphis Grizzlies and New Orleans Pelicans boast two of the deepest rosters in the entire league. Rounding out the division is the Dallas Mavericks who have their base and know exactly who they are and what they want to be coming into season 23-24.  

Memphis Grizzlies 60-22 (22/23)

The Grizzlies find themselves at the crossroads of potential and urgency, navigating the NSL landscape with a roster brimming with talent but lacking that defining alpha presence. The league's history books emphasize the necessity of a 90+ superstar to hoist the championship banner, and Memphis, with its cadre of impressive second-set stars, it appears ready to pen its own chapter. In a chess game of player acquisitions, the elusive alpha remains the missing piece in this basketball puzzle. While names like Brown, Beal, Bam, JJJ, and Herro dance on the roster, the absence of a go-to player in crunch moments looms large. As the echoes of missed opportunities reverberate, the urgency to secure a legitimate superstar amplifies. But they are brimming with talent. A stacked roster of talented players, the Grizzlies could be that team that takes the next step. The stage is set, the players are ready, but the question remains: Will Memphis seize the opportunity, or will the symphony of potential be drowned out by the silence of unfulfilled expectations?

Dallas Mavericks 20-62 (22/23)

Amidst a struggle for victories, the team faced the arduous task of monitoring the standings throughout the 82-game stretch, desperately trying to evade the ominous specter of possessing the worst record in the league. While intentionally securing the worst record may be a strategy for tanking teams, for a franchise grappling with adversity and lacking control over their draft pick, it could spell the end of job security. In the backdrop of what promised to be an exceptionally rewarding lottery, boasting Victor Wembenyama as the coveted prize, the Mavericks battled relentlessly all season to stay clear of the bottom four. Ultimately, they succeeded in avoiding what could have been a catastrophic transaction misstep. The team has a slathering of players with veteran status and emerging talent on their name. The likes of Williams, Hayward, Collins, Smart and Bey are solid in their roles, but the identity of a true alpha still alludes the team. With their pick in hand, it could be a question of, do we or don�t we?

New Orleans Pelicans 35-47 (22/23)

The much-anticipated trade involving Luka Doncic, possibly one of the most awaited transactions in NSL history, has finally materialised, music to the ears of  GM Leeroy. Following the challenges faced by the franchise, acquiring arguably the league's premier player is a source of profound contentment � one that looks like it could pave the way for a success filled future in NOLA. Coupled with notable additions such as Pascal Siakam and promising draft pick Lively, alongside the prospect of internal development from players like Keldon Johnson, Austin Reeves, and Wendell Carter Jr., the Pelicans appear to be on an upward trajectory. The question lingers: Could this be the season in which their talented roster seamlessly coalesces into a formidable force? The prevailing sentiment is one of optimism, as it would seem the pieces are aligning for the Pelicans to realise their potential led by Luka Doncic.

Houston Rockets 39-43 (22/23)

The Houston Rockets concluded their season with a measure of disappointment. Despite boasting three star players, including the league's arguable best, Nikola Jokic, and a robust veteran rotation, the team fell short in the first round, succumbing to a sweep by San Antonio in the playoffs. A bright spot emerged for Houston post-season. The franchise successfully secured their cornerstone point guard, Tyrese Haliburton, by signing the 23-year-old guard to a max rookie extension � and it is this duo of Tyreses that seems to be the biggest change for the future of this organisation. Haliburton and Maxey have the potential of being the most fearsome guard partnership in the league. The prospects for the upcoming season appear bright for the Rockets. The Joker is poised for another formidable campaign, showcasing his prowess as one of the league's premier players, while both Tyreses are on the cusp of breakout seasons. Coupled with a robust bench boasting ample depth, the Rockets have the potential to pose a significant challenge to many teams in the league. Success hinges on obtaining essential production from their bench players, but if this is achieved, Houston stands ready to be a formidable force in the upcoming season.

San Antonio Spurs 69-13

The incumbent NSL Champions, the San Antonio Spurs look to go at it again. They once more have built a roster around their all-star Giannis Antetokounmpo that seems playoffs destined. We a starting five that looks to be designed as Dinwiddie, Harden, Giannis, Bol Bol and McGee, they will be hard to stop. Seemingly adding players to fill gaps from the previous and in many ways improve their production and abilities. RoCo and Vuc see bench minutes � that�s the depth of this team. Once cannot underestimate the Spurs and their ability to make wins happen, and build winning rosters. GM Nels will be hoping that his guys stay healthy and waiver free. It is evident that the duo of Harden and Giannis is a scary proposition for any team � and what a luxury to have the Freak swing to the 3. Can the Spurs keep up their winning ways and see off the advances of up and coming teams, or will a new team seek the crown in season 23/24?

Individually 
Star Power

There are many star assets in these Southwest teams, but none bigger than the following. We ranked the best players from each team below, and deep dived into each team�s leading man.

1.     Giannis Antetokounmpo is a beast in 2K, using his crazy athleticism, killer finishing moves, and defensive skills to dominate the virtual court. 

2.     Luka Doncic is a scoring and playmaking machine, bringing his real-life offensive versatility into the game.

3.     Nikola Jokic, the playmaking center, does his thing in 2K with sweet passes and scoring finesse.

4.     Jaylen Brown, while super athletic and a defensive force, might be a tad less versatile in the gaming world compared to the others on this list.

5.     Gordon Hayward is pretty well-rounded in the game, chipping in on both ends of the court with his diverse skill set.

Memphis Grizzlies 

Jaylen Brown SF

Jaylen Brown's in 2K is nothing short of remarkable � he has already shown that. His explosive athleticism, versatility, and rapidly evolving skill set makes Brown an ever-present force to be reckoned with on the hardwood. In game, his ability to seamlessly transition from a slashing scorer to a lockdown defender mirrors his real-life prowess � a scary prescence for any opposing team. With a combination of high offensive ratings and defensive acumen, Brown becomes a dual-threat player capable of impacting every facet of the game. He is a key asset for the Grizz as they would be aiming for championship glory in the NSL this year.

Dallas Mavericks

Gordon Hayward SF

Gordon Hayward is still a baller with serious game, even at his current career situation. Shooting hoops with style and efficiency - a slick jump and high IQ. GM LJMaverick has Hayward ready to be that guy and has balanced the roster as best as possible to have the ball in his hand when they really need it. A question as always surrounds his health and making the court with regularity. He is a vetted player who can hit 30+ in the right scenarios.  Whether he's shaking off defenders with his smooth handles or nailing threes from downtown, Hayward's offensive skills are top-notch. And let's not forget his defensive hustle, it will be important for him to be all things with a lack of support. 

New Orleans Pelicans

Luka Doncic SG

Luka Doncic�s potential in NBA 2K mirrors his real-life impact on the league. His on-court brilliance is an every game occurrence. GM Leeroy has his team primed and ready to go, and the move for Doncic makes this team incredibly imposing. Doncic has exceptional basketball IQ and playmaking prowess and have him poised for a potential MVP season. His ability to hit a step-back three-pointer, push the ball, play both ends and close out games. New Orleans have that extra layer of excitement and strategic depth that means that Doncic can find his spots with precision. He seems set to dominate the league. His ability to lead and contribute will be exceptionally helpful as the Pelicans continue to seek that chip, and claim honours at season�s end.

Houston Rockets

Nikola Jokic C

The current NBA Finals MVP, Nikola Jokic is a phenom in the NSL and NBA worlds. GM Vitticus knows exactly who he is, and what he can do for his organisation. As formidable as any, Jokic is impactful on both ends seemingly effortlessly. The star center brings his unique blend of playmaking, scoring, and basketball IQ to the Houston Rockets. With Tyrese Maxey and Tyrese Haliburton able to run the ball, Jokic has the potential to have a monumental season in 23/24. His exceptional passing skills, impressive post moves, and scoring versatility, make him a top 5 center in the league. Able to stretch the floor and orchestrate plays, his role of playmaker could be one of the most impeccable assets, as the likes of Maxey emerge as 30+ scoring options. One of the league's most versatile big men, the Houston Rockets will need him to mirror his NBA self, to bring home a championship to the city of Houston.

San Antonio Spurs

Giannis Antetokounmpo SF

What can be said of Giannis, that hasn�t already been said� not much! But in season 23/24, the role changes mean that his ability to torture and torment as significantly improved. Giannis will likely play the small forward position for most of the season, and GM Nels has been able to add big men talent around him to be able to cover. Likewise other guard additions will mean that Giannis can get free and score with regularity. One of the league's most versatile players, Giannis is a force to be reckoned with. His combination of speed, athleticism, and skill is accurately reflected, making him a powerhouse in the NSL, as shown by his previous season. Expect to control the game with his unparalleled ability to drive to the basket, finish with authority, and play tenacious defense. In NBA 2K, Giannis's potential shines as he becomes a game-changing player capable of taking over in crucial moments � in many ways being the most imposing player in the league. Well known by General Managers league-wide, Giannis has the ability to slash to the rim or swat away shots. "The Greek Freak" is exactly that, a FREAK! He will need to be all things freakish, in the most competitive season in recent memory. Can he drive the Spurs to back-to-back titles � time will tell!

Division Decision

At season�s end, the division will be defined by many factors. Including emerging talents, injuries, player longevity and the almighty chemistry team (will 2K NSL reflect). At the moment, all GMs are looking at usage and trying to find the achilles heel of each opponent. What will be the impact of the tinkering and who�s roster will be triumphant?

Pre-Season Division Prediction 

1.       San Antonio Spurs

2.       New Orleans Pelicans

3.       Houston Rockets

4.       Memphis Grizzlies

5.       Dallas Mavericks