Rebounding, in both real basketball and NBA 2K25, is all about positioning, anticipation, timing, and tenacity. Here are several common sense tips in chronological order for 2K vets and beginners alike to own the glass in NBA 2K25.
Learn the Basic Controls to Rebounding
Learning the basic controls of rebounding is step #1 to becoming a GOAT rebounder. Here they are below:
- Move Player: LS / LS
- Rebound: Y / Triangle
- Boxout: LT / L2
- Putback: Hold X / Square (when attempting an offensive rebound)
Use 2K Camera Angle
Every camera angle has its distinct pros and cons, and 2K Cam is the best for seeing the trajectory of the ball and vision of the different angles for rebounding. Use the default 2K Cam settings for best vision of the ball.
Create or Choose Player w/High Rebounding Badges, Attributes, Height & Wingspan
Equip rebounding badges: Rebound Chaser and Boxout Beast. Increase rebounding attributes: Offensive Rebound, Defensive Rebound (80 minimum), Strength, and Vertical. Increase physical attributes: height and wingspan.
Change Controller Settings
In Controller Settings, under ‘Boxout Assist Strength,’ set it to “0.” The reason for this is it gives the user more control and responsiveness over boxouts, which should result in more rebounds if you’re in proper position.
Gain Inside Position & Box Out
The best way to be in the best position to get the board is to box out by getting between the opponent and the hoop and pressing LT / L2. Better yet, it makes even more basketball sense to specifically target the opponent’s best rebounder to box out. Chances are, it will be a big man snagging most of the boards, so focusing on them instead of shorter players will pay off. Good rebounders shouldn’t only rely on size and jumping ability, but on seeing situational opportunities to gain inside position, constantly playing the angles and fighting for position. Also, use the Boxout Beast Badge for boosts to box outs.
Assume it’s a Miss
Get in the habit of assuming that every shot is a miss every time. This way on every shot you’ll be looking for the rebound.
Focus on the Trajectory of Ball
Rebounding is also about anticipating the physics of the basketball and rim, so having a sense of where the ball is going to go will give you a leg up on the competition. NBA 2K uses real basketball rim physics, so deflections behave the same way as they do in real basketball. For example, shots hitting the front of the rim straight on will usually deflect straight back, long missed 3 PT shots = long rebounds, and so on. This also means you should take distance, height, and speed of the bounce into consideration when making your move to snag the board. Many players just get near the hoop and jump straight up and expect to get the rebound, but it all depends on where the ball is headed – which means you might have to back up, scoot in, or run for the rebound.
Another thing to factor in is “flight time”. Flight Time is the amount of time it takes for the ball to leave a shooter’s hand until it gets to a position where it can be rebounded.
Be Tenacious
Even if you don’t get the rebound some times, being tenacious will mean the opponent will always have to worry about your player on the offensive and defensive glass. Be relentless and tenacious in looking for opportunities to grab the rebound, but at the same time, defer to a teammate if they are in better position. At the end of the day, you have to want the ball more than the opponent.
There you have it! Be sure to put these tips into practice to help you own the glass in NBA 2K25!
