There isn’t anything quite like a successful dunk in the NBA, and there really isn’t anything like pulling one off in a game of NBA 2K25. Being able to drive into the paint, leap over an opponent, and slam the ball down through the hoop is something that sends a message to the opponent: they’re not stopping it. It’s a way to flex over the other team and get the crowd into the game like no other play can.

The game does a great job of making dunking feel just as satisfying as it would be in a real game. It also offers a ton of different animations and styles for dunking that players can use to choose how they want to pull off this iconic move. This guide is here to inform anyone who wants to choose the best options about just what those options are.

Athletic Front Tomahawks

Slam It With Authority

• An aggressive dunk that makes a statement
• Can be tough to block

A Tomahawk jam is one of the best kinds of dunks in the game of basketball. It involves the player cocking their arm back with the ball as they take off and then dunking it with authority. It’s an aggressive dunk that can demotivate an opponent easily. It’s also pretty tough to block thanks to how quickly it happens.

Cradle Dunks Off One

Safe And Effective

• Has some attitude to it, but isn’t careless.
• A controlled dunk to ensure a score.

This dunk can be just about perfect. It has the player cradling the ball to stop a defender from poking it or blocking it, while finishing with a pretty stylish slam. For players who want to show off a little bit but don’t want to risk losing out on the points, this dunk animation is for them. It makes the entire experience much more exciting, as you can relax about it being stopped.

LeBron James

An Iconic Dunk

• LeBron’s dunks are fearsome and electric.
• The range is incredible.

LeBron has built much of his legacy on how powerful his dunks are and this animation makes players feel like they’re actually controlling the GOAT (it’s a joke, Jordan fans). This animation will get the crowd, and probably the player, on their feet.

Quick Drops Off Two

Don’t Worry About Missing

• The safest option to score
• Simple, but effective

This makes the list thanks to its safety; this dunk is not meant to be flashy or boastful. It is about putting the ball through the basket as safely and quickly as possible. When players attempt a more elaborate dunk, they run the risk of having that dunk blocked or defended by an opponent. This animation is designed to stop that from happening.

Russell Westbrook

An Athletic Flair

• It’s quick and easy.
• Explosiveness makes it fun.

Westbrook is not the biggest player in the league, but he has made a name for himself through his athleticism and explosive plays. He has always been able to barrel his way in for a layup, and sometimes a big dunk. Pulling this one off isn’t as easy, as it requires a good lane to the hoop. But once it is done, it can electrify a game immediately.