While NBA 2K21 does not fully reinvent the series' dribbling mechanic, it does make a number of changes to the system that was in place last year. As a result, the best dribble moves in NBA 2K21 are not what they were in NBA 2K20, and there are even some brand new animation types present in this entry. For those players that are looking for a bit of help in selecting these animations, this guide outlines some of the best dribble moves to use this time around.
For full clarity, dribble moves are selected in NBA 2K21 through the My Animations section of the MyPLAYER Appearance tab. NBA 2K21 players will also find options for adjusting their shots, dunks, and layups in this menu, though those animations will not be discussed in this guide. With that established, here are some recommended dribble moves for fans to try in this new sports simulator:
Best Dribble Moves in NBA 2K21
- Dribble Style: Quick | Magic Johnson
- Moving Crossovers: Pro 8Â | Pro 2
- Moving Behind the Backs: Pro 3 | Pro 5
- Moving Spin: Basic 1 | Pro 4
- Moving Hesitations: Pro 3 | Pro 5
- Sig Size-Up : K. Irving | C. Paul | T. Hardaway
- Park Size-Up: Park 13 | Park 5 | Park 11
- Basic Size-Up Packages: Pro 6 | Pro 5
- Size-Up Escape Packages: Pro 2 | Pro 4
- Triple Threat Styles: Normal 2 | WNBA 4 | Normal 1
As players will see, there are several reasonable options for each of the dribble animations in NBA 2K21, and fans are advised to give them all a try before finalizing their selections. That said, there are a few instances where one of the indicated dribble moves is likely better than the alternatives, and indeed players should consider locking in Moving Crossovers at Pro 2, Moving Spin at Basic 1, and Size-Up Escape Packages at Pro 2 straightaway.
On the flip side, things like Dribble Style and Triple Threat Styles are unlikely to have a major impact in many games, and fans can thus select those animations with relative impunity. Similarly, the import of Hesitations has been reduced when compared to NBA 2K20, which means that players need not agonize over picking the perfect move for that category in these early days of the game.
One last thing to say about dribble moves in NBA 2K21 is that fans should not expect to see a huge improvement in their games simply by selecting the animations noted above. Indeed, learning how these dribble moves function in combination with one another and with the best jumpshots in NBA 2K21 is critical, and players that put in the work will certainly be rewarded for their efforts.
NBA 2K21 is available now on PC, PS4, Stadia, Switch, Xbox One, and mobile devices, with PS5 and Xbox Series X versions in development.
