NBA 2K19: 9 Best Teams You Should Play First

3. Philadelphia 76ers

Steph Curry NBA 2K19
2K Sports

If you're looking for a sure thing when it comes to a medium/long-term 2K19 project, the Sixers are your best bet. Not only are they immediate conference contenders in the east, but favourable contracts mean keeping their astonishing young core intact is a lot easier than it should be. Besides, they're just bags of fun to play with.

Ben Simmons' unique skillset makes navigating his wonky jumper a breeze. Bumped to an overall rating of 87 in 2K19, he carries the load alongside Joel Embiid, who's an absolute beast himself at 90. With the promising Dario Saric, the underrated Robert Covington, and veteran grenade launcher J.J. Redick also in the starting five, and former number one draft pick Markelle Fultz waiting in the wing, this potential-laden team is ready to challenge the likes of the Boston Celtics right away.

There are a couple of wonky stats, with Ingram C-graded insider scoring and D+ perimeter defence particularly galling, but this only adds to the challenge of breaking the Warriors' stranglehold. It'll be one of the NBA's defining narratives in 2018-19, and if you pull it off, one of your most satisfying 2K19 accomplishments.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.