Best NBA 2K23 Cs: Top Centers By Rating

Analyzing the NBA’s premier big men and overlooked interior talents in the latest basketball simulation.

With NBA 2K23 now available, the annual debate over elite centers intensifies. The classic matchups—Ewing versus Olajuwon, Shaq against Mourning—find modern parallels in the Jokic-Embiid rivalry. This season’s center roster demonstrates remarkable depth, particularly with Christian Wood pursuing All-Star recognition in Dallas. As the official 2K23 ratings become public, understanding the hierarchy of top centers becomes essential for competitive success.

For comprehensive NBA 2K23 coverage, explore our detailed Complete Guide to gameplay mechanics and the extensive ratings database.

Visual Concepts has compiled this definitive ranking of premier centers in NBA 2K23:

• Nikola Jokic – 96 OVR – The reigning MVP dominates with unparalleled playmaking and efficient scoring. His unique combination of post moves, three-point range, and elite passing makes him the most versatile offensive center. Defensively, focus on positioning rather than shot-blocking to maximize his effectiveness.
• Anthony Davis – 90 OVR – When healthy, Davis provides two-way excellence with rim protection and perimeter scoring. His mid-range game and pick-and-pop effectiveness create matchup nightmares. Utilize his switching capability against modern small-ball lineups.
• Karl Anthony-Towns – 89 OVR – Towns’ three-point shooting revolutionizes the center position, stretching defenses while maintaining rebounding prowess. His defensive improvements make him more viable in isolation situations.
• Domantas Sabonis – 86 OVR – The skilled big man excels in high-post facilitation and interior scoring. His lack of elite rim protection requires strategic help defense positioning.
• Pascal Siakam – 86 OVR – Though often deployed at power forward, Siakam’s center capabilities shine in small-ball configurations. His perimeter defense and transition offense create unique advantages.
• Deandre Ayton – 85 OVR – Ayton’s efficient paint scoring and improving defensive awareness make him a reliable two-way option. His pick-and-roll chemistry with elite guards maximizes his production.
• Bam Adebayo – 85 OVR – The defensive anchor provides switchability across all positions while offering developing offensive skills. His passing vision enhances team ball movement significantly.
• Rudy Gobert – 84 OVR – Defensive specialist whose rim protection remains elite, though offensive limitations constrain his overall impact. Perfect for teams needing defensive stability.
• Jarrett Allen – 83 OVR – The rising Cavaliers center combines efficient finishing with solid rebounding and shot-blocking. His mobility allows effective coverage in space.
• Myles Turner – 82 OVR – Elite shot-blocking combined with three-point range creates valuable spacing. His defensive presence alters opponent driving strategies.
• Jonas Valanciunas – 82 OVR – The physical big man dominates the glass and provides reliable low-post scoring. His limited mobility requires defensive scheme adjustments.

Beyond the top-tier rankings, several centers offer exceptional value for specific team constructions and gameplay styles.

Christian Wood’s potential with Dallas makes him a fascinating development project. His scoring versatility and athleticism could yield significant returns with proper utilization. Robert Williams III provides elite defensive impact despite lower overall ratings, while Ivica Zubac offers reliable rebounding and interior presence at budget cost.

For teams building around specific Class Guide principles, these secondary options can provide specialized skills without sacrificing competitiveness.

Mastering center utilization requires understanding both individual strengths and systemic fit. The most common mistake involves forcing centers into unsuitable roles—don’t expect Jokic to defend like Gobert or Ayton to facilitate like Sabonis.

Optimal offensive positioning varies dramatically by player type. Stretch centers like Towns should operate from the perimeter, while paint dominators like Valanciunas need deep positioning. Defensive schemes must complement center mobility—switch-heavy defenses suit Adebayo, while drop coverage maximizes Gobert’s impact.

In MyTeam modes, center selection should align with your overall strategy. Defensive-minded builds benefit from shot-blockers, while offensive schemes prioritize scoring versatility. For comprehensive team-building strategies, consult our Weapons Unlock guide for complementary player acquisitions.

Advanced players should note that proper badge allocation can elevate mid-tier centers significantly. Investing in defensive badges for offensive-minded centers (or vice versa) creates more balanced contributors.

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