NBA 2K26 has arrived, and for locking all the way in and reaching Level 40 you can unlock a shiny Pink Diamond Klay Thompson. You can't go wrong with a Splash Brother leading your squad. His quick release and incredible long-range shooting ability make him a worthwhile addition to any team. He makes perfect use of the new No Dip Catch and Shoot ability. Here's the quickest way to level 40, so you can welcome him aboard.
Yes, You Can Pay to Play
It wouldn't be NBA 2K if you couldn't skip steps by using your credit card. The Hall of Fame Pass cost $19.99 and grants 10 instant level skips, 15 percent XP boost and 15,000 VC. If you buy the $9.99 Pro Pass, you can upgrade to the HoF pass at any time. You can also buy levels one at a time.
I am not saying you have to do it this way, but it wouldn't be a complete guide if I didn't let you know about a method that lets you skip 10 levels instantly.
Double XP Tokens Make This Way Easier
Double XP Tokens are golden along this run. They'll appear through your season pass, and as in-game rewards in modes such as Breakout. They'll work their magic for 30, 60, or 120 minutes but be warned, they do not stack. Another important caveat: once a token is active it goes in real time. A 60 min token works for exactly one hour, it doesn't matter if you have to stop playing during that time.
But that also works in your favor in one instance. As long as you start a game mode with time active on a token, you will earn Double XP for that game. If you have 30 seconds left on a token, start a game and you will the get full Double XP. That's when I hit the pause button and take a well-deserved bathroom break. Grinding is hell sometimes.
Domination is Still the Most Profitable Mode
This has been a thing for a couple of NBA 2Ks now, and I can confirm it works in 2K26 as well. A game of domination played with a double XP token yields almost a whole level by itself. This is the most bang for your back, especially if you prefer the single-player grind.
I'll be on this level-grinding journey with you all season, and I'll let you know if I or the Internet discover any other useful tricks.