The Best GameCube Basketball Games
If you owned a GameCube at any time during your life, then it's safe to say there were probably a few baller basketball games in your collection. With so many great options to choose from, there was never a shortage of games to play for fans of the genre. Since some games were much better than others, we've decided to rank the best GameCube basketball games of all time.
This list features the most popular and best-selling basketball games that were released for GameCube. While many of these games were console exclusive, we're allowing non-exclusives to be a part of the list as well. This poll features NBA Street, NBA Courtside 2002, and more. Vote for your favorite video games below.
- Apr 28 2003
- Developer: EA Canada
With its dazzling streetball moves and over-the-top gameplay, NBA Street Vol. 2 stands out as a masterpiece among GameCube basketball titles. Building on the original game's success, this sequel delivers new jaw-dropping moves and a revamped Gamebreaker feature, offering more explosive opportunities for players to dominate their opponents. The eclectic roster, featuring both NBA legends and current stars, allows for thrilling matchups and unique team compositions. Moreover, engaging courts, creative challenges, and the gritty street aesthetic make NBA Street Vol. 2 a distinctive and unforgettable gaming experience.
- 2005
- Developer: EA Canada
Continuing the acclaimed Street series, NBA Street V3 boasts the perfect blend of arcade-style gameplay and stunning visuals that fans have come to adore. This third installment introduces the innovative Dunk Contest mode, which lets players showcase their creative dunking skills in an electrifying competition. The game also offers a robust customization system, allowing users to create their own characters, courts, and even sneakers. Furthermore, the inclusion of Nintendo-exclusive characters like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach makes NBA Street V3 a must-have for any GameCube basketball aficionado.
- 2004
- Developer: EA Canada
Taking the long-running franchise to new heights, NBA Live 2005 delights fans with its impressive graphics, fluid gameplay, and overall improved realism. This iteration introduces the groundbreaking All-Star Weekend mode, featuring the Slam Dunk Contest and Three-Point Shootout, adding a fresh competitive edge to the series. The enhanced Dynasty Mode enables players to manage every aspect of their team, providing an immersive simulation experience. Additionally, quality-of-life improvements, such as improved defensive controls, solidify NBA Live 2005 as a standout entry in the GameCube basketball library.
- Jun 18 2001
- Developer: EA Canada, Electronic Arts
The game that started it all, NBA Street revolutionized the genre with its high-flying dunks and exhilarating, fast-paced gameplay. Set on gritty, urban courts, NBA Street pits players against a mix of real-life NBA stars and fictional streetballers, giving the game a unique style and vibe. The innovative Trick Stick system enables users to execute spectacular moves, making for exhilarating action on the court. Plus, the memorable Gamebreaker feature allows players to perform momentum-shifting super-dunks, setting NBA Street apart as a truly groundbreaking GameCube basketball title.
- Jan 14 2002
- Developer: Left Field Productions
Offering an authentic simulation experience, NBA Courtside 2002 stands as a solid addition to the GameCube basketball lineup. The game's roster features all 29 NBA teams, complete with real-life players, allowing for lifelike matchups and endless replayability. With its tight controls, various game modes, and in-depth player management options, NBA Courtside 2002 provides a satisfying balance between realism and fun. Additionally, the inclusion of celebrity players like Tom Chambers and Reggie Miller adds a touch of novelty to this well-rounded title.
- 2002
- Developer: EA Canada
Featuring groundbreaking gameplay and visuals, NBA Live 2003 set the standard for the future of the basketball simulation genre. The introduction of the "Freestyle Control" system allowed players to execute advanced moves and shots with ease, adding a new layer of depth to the gameplay. Boasting an extensive roster and immersive Franchise Mode, NBA Live 2003 kept fans engaged for hours on end. Moreover, the inclusion of an eclectic soundtrack, featuring artists like Snoop Dogg and Busta Rhymes, further solidified this game's status as a GameCube classic.