Summary
NBA 2K27 has finally delivered what fans have been demanding for years: major face scan updates for some of the game's most iconic players. While the NBA 2K series has long been praised for its hyperrealistic graphics, certain player models have consistently fallen short—until now. Whether you're grinding through MyCAREER or building your ultimate squad in MyTEAM, these visual upgrades make every mode more immersive—and if you want to fast-track your progress, you can Buy NBA 2K27 VC to unlock cosmetic items, player upgrades, and packs that let you fully enjoy these enhanced player models from day one. This guide breaks down the ten most significant face scan improvements in NBA 2K27 and explains why these updates matter for your gaming experience.
1. Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
The Problem: Anthony Edwards has suffered from one of the most notoriously bad face scans in NBA 2K history. Despite being a current superstar with full player rights, his model looked nothing like him year after year.
The Improvement: NBA 2K27 finally gave Ant the update he deserved. His face now accurately reflects his appearance, with proper facial structure and features. The update also includes the Timberwolves' new jerseys, court, and logo, making the entire presentation feel fresh and authentic.
Why It Matters: Current players should always have accurate face scans. Edwards is one of the league's most exciting young stars, and having him look correct enhances immersion for fans who play with the Timberwolves or use him in MyTEAM and other modes.
2. Stephen Jackson
The Problem: Stephen Jackson's previous face scan was almost comically bad—his forehead was disproportionately large, and the overall likeness was barely recognizable.
The Improvement: NBA 2K27 completely overhauled Jackson's model. Not only does the face scan finally look accurate, but his tattoos have also been updated to match reality.
Why It Matters: Jackson played in the 2010s and appears on important classic teams like the All-Time Hornets. For players who enjoy using historic rosters, having accurate legends improves the overall experience.
Pro Tip: If you're playing with classic teams, pay attention to these legend updates—they make a huge difference in visual authenticity.
3. Dikembe Mutombo
The Problem: The Hall of Fame center's previous model looked so off that many fans didn't even realize how bad it was until seeing the comparison.
The Improvement: Mutombo's new face scan is dramatically better, capturing his distinctive features with far greater accuracy.
Why It Matters: Mutombo is one of the greatest defenders in NBA history, appearing on important teams like the 2001 Philadelphia 76ers that made the Finals. His face scan was long overdue for an upgrade, and this update honors his legacy properly.
4. Derrick Rose
The Problem: As a former cover athlete, Derrick Rose's model should have been top-tier. Instead, it featured PlayStation 3-era detail levels, with an oddly shaped head that made him look like a "thumb."
The Improvement: While not a complete overhaul, the changes are significant:
Ear detail: Added realistic ear definition instead of the previous blob-like appearance
Head shape: Widened the top of the head for better proportion
Skin tone: Improved lighting adjustment (though some fans note the skin appears lighter)
Why It Matters: Even small changes like these contribute to overall realism. The devs focused on making Rose's model more accurate, proving that attention to detail matters.
5. Moses Malone
The Problem: Moses Malone's previous model featured goggles and short hair, which didn't represent his prime years.
The Improvement: This update is unique—the face scan itself wasn't changed, but they:
Removed the goggles
Gave him longer hair
Why It Matters: Malone's prime was with the Houston Rockets and early Philadelphia 76ers years, where he looked like the updated version. The goggles and short hair represented his later, less iconic years. This change prioritizes prime-era accuracy over iconic-but-incorrect appearance.
Note: Both versions could ideally exist in the game, but if forced to choose, the prime-era model is the right call for accuracy.
6. Tim Hardaway
The Problem: The previous model looked like a "robot"—technically resembling Hardaway but lacking any sense of realism.
The Improvement: The new face scan looks more natural and lifelike. While maybe not "perfect," it captures his essence far better.
Why It Matters: This shows that 2K is focusing on improving the overall realism of all players, not just the biggest superstars.
7. Michael Cooper
The Problem: Cooper's old model looked awful, but the new version still has room for improvement.
The Improvement:
Cheekbones are now more defined (accurate)
Skin tone was darkened (though some argue it's now too dark)
The Criticism: The update feels like a step forward but not a complete success. Cooper has a very specific facial structure that still isn't fully captured.
Why It Matters: Even imperfect updates show progress. Cooper appears on important Lakers teams, so his model matters for historic gameplay.
8. Jerry West
The Problem: Jerry West's previous model was a travesty—he had an elongated nose (compared to Squidward) and overly long hair.
The Improvement:
Nose shape is now accurate
Hair length corrected
Overall improved facial features
The Reality Check: This update moves him from "PS3 Jerry West" to "PS4 Jerry West"—still not true 4K quality, but a massive improvement.
Why It Matters: Jerry West is literally the NBA logo. One of the most iconic figures in basketball history deserves a proper face scan, and this update finally delivers something respectable.
9. Don Nelson
The Problem: Don Nelson's previous model looked like he was "made out of gel" with unrealistic features.
The Improvement: The new face scan is incredibly accurate and realistic.
Why It Matters: This is the most surprising update. Nelson was a famous coach but not a superstar player—he was rated around 69 overall on the 1960s Lakers. Yet 2K still invested time in making him accurate.
Lesson: 2K is showing commitment to accuracy across all players, not just the top names. This sets a positive precedent for future updates.
10. Oscar Robertson (The Big O) — Best Improvement
The Problem: Words cannot describe how bad Oscar Robertson's previous model was. It was genuinely insulting to one of the greatest players of all time.
The Improvement: This is the most dramatic upgrade in NBA 2K27. The new model:
Looks exactly like Oscar Robertson
Is arguably one of the best face scans in the entire game
Features proper facial proportions, skin tone, and details
The Suspicion: Some fans suspect AI technology was used to achieve this level of accuracy—and frankly, nobody is complaining about it.
Why It Matters: Oscar Robertson is a Mount Rushmore-level NBA legend. Giving him a 100% accurate face scan honors his legacy and provides players with an authentic classic experience.
Key Takeaways for Players
Current stars matter: Anthony Edwards finally looks correct—expect similar updates for other young stars in future patches.
Legends are being prioritized: From the Big O to Mutombo, historic greats are getting much-needed love.
Small details count: Even minor changes to ears, head shape, and hair can dramatically improve a player's likeness.
Prime versions matter: The Moses Malone update shows that 2K is thinking about which version of a player is most recognizable.
Expect continued improvement: With AI technology potentially being used, future face scans could become even more accurate.
How to Get the Most Out of These Updates
MyTEAM: These updated models make building historic teams more visually satisfying
Franchise Mode: Realistic player models enhance immersion during gameplay
Quick Play: Try these updated players to see the improvements firsthand
Final Thoughts
NBA 2K27 has taken a significant step forward in player model accuracy. While there's still work to be done—Michael Cooper and Jerry West could use further polish—the overall improvements are undeniable. The fact that 2K is updating both superstars and role players shows a commitment to quality that fans have been requesting for years.
Whether you're a casual player or a hardcore hooper, these face scan updates make the game feel more authentic and immersive. The Big O alone is worth the upgrade, and the rest of the improvements are icing on the cake. Of course, looking the part is only half the fun—you'll also want your MyPLAYER or MyTEAM squad to perform at peak level, and that's where having ample VC NBA 2K27 comes in handy, whether for attribute boosts, cosmetic gear, or pack openings. For players looking to stock up efficiently, we highly recommend checking out MMOEXP—they offer reliable and competitive rates for VC, so you can spend less time grinding and more time enjoying these stunning new face scans with your fully upgraded roster.
