Arcade-style basketball is making a comeback this summer with NBA The Run, a new fast-paced 3v3 streetball experience arriving in June 2026. Developed by Play by Play Studios in partnership with the National Basketball Association and the National Basketball Players Association, the game is set to launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, and PC via Steam.
A new gameplay trailer has debuted, offering the first look at the game’s over-the-top style. Expect highlight-reel moments packed with posterizing dunks, ankle-breaking moves, lockdown defense, and plenty of above-the-rim action.
Players won’t have to wait long to jump in themselves. The first closed beta playtest kicks off May 1, 2026, running from 12 PM to 3 PM PDT exclusively on Steam, with sign-ups already open for those looking to get early access.
Run the World Tournament
At the core of NBA The Run is the Run the World Tournament, a four-round knockout competition where teams of three battle it out on streetball courts across the globe. Each tournament builds toward a championship showdown held on one of four special finals courts, where teams compete for the Run the World trophy—and ultimate bragging rights.
Game Modes at Launch
When the game launches, players will be able to jump into three different modes:
Knockout Squads – Team up with friends or other players in a squad of three, controlling a single player as you compete in online tournaments.
Knockout Solos – Build and control your own team of three and face off against other player-created squads.
Knockout Friends – Create a private tournament where you can play solo against AI, team up with friends against AI, or host matches with invited players. Private tournaments will support up to 48 players at launch.
NBA Stars Meet Streetball Legends
At launch, players will choose from a roster of more than 30 NBA stars alongside five original streetball legends, each designed with their own playstyles and visual flair. The game’s stylized approach aims to capture the energy of classic arcade sports titles while delivering smooth, modern gameplay.
The action is powered by rollback netcode, designed to keep matches responsive online. Every crossover, loose-ball dive, and alley-oop is synchronized across players to maintain a seamless competitive experience.
A Love Letter to Classic Sports Games
NBA The Run marks the debut project from Play by Play Studios, an independent development team made up of industry veterans who have previously worked on major game franchises. Their goal is to bring back the spirit of the golden era of sports games while building something fresh for today’s players.
With its global streetball tournaments, stylized roster, and fast-paced gameplay, NBA The Run is shaping up to be a new take on arcade basketball when it hits consoles and PC this June.
Keep an eye out for the closed beta this week—and get ready to run the court.