The most rewarding aspect of NBA 2K is in the MyCareer path, and the exact same holds true for this year's game. You create a player, spec out them to get a position, and build them further by specializing in some basketball skills and stats. By way of NBA 2K22 MT example, I built my guy to be a point guard that will thread the needle when dishing aids, but one who can also easily finish with driving layups or mid-range jumpers.
Every activity in NBA 2K21 is deliberate and at greater levels of play
Once you've settled on your template and stat abilities, you go through a new yet familiar story of becoming a young, upcoming player leading into the NBA draft. Notable actors such as Michael K. Williams, Djimon Hounsou, and Jesse Williams play characters on your cinematic-style story and deliver powerful performances. However, while some dramatic or pivotal moments draw you for only a beat, it doesn't actually add up to much or sensibly join to a front. There's a pleasant romantic subplot, petty player drama, a thread on your dad who seemingly passed away but shows up in flashbacks (he is played with Jesse Williams and does not look a day older than a player, so that was confusing), along with a somewhat dishonest family friend who will become your agent. Really, it's fancy set-dressing to usher you into the full roster of MyCareer activities.
Like previous iterations, the level of depth that goes to building your participant stays the strongest hook--this includes working your way to the starting lineup as Buy MT 2K22 an NBA player as you play seasons, gaining endorsements, getting swagged out into fresh clothes and sneakers, and playing in competitive pickup matches online.