NBA 2K9 continues to break new ground while retaining the features that made NBA 2K8 the #1 NBA simulator. The revamped and upgraded graphics and animation mechanics have been further improved with more dynamic ranges of motion and even facial animations as the players respond to unfavorable calls or buzzer-beating shots. On the sidelines, the crowd comes to life and reacts to the on-court heroics. Signature animations – introduced in the previous version for offensive plays – now let perimeter defensive players and shot blockers alike really put on the moves. Strip balls, dribble backwards, dive out of bounds to keep the ball in play or reach from behind to steal it. The revolutionary Shot Stick control system lets you adjust your shots in mid-air to pass the ball to an open player when you're suddenly blocked. Your teammates will automatically set screens or cut to the rim or you can take control and set the plays on the fly. With DNA technology, the players will perform as their real-life original. The deep play of The Association has gotten deeper with NBA.com integration to give you access to the latest trades and rumors. New mini-game drills keep your players' skills at their peak. Form online teams for five-on-five tournaments and seasons or upload your favorite rosters and settings. The improved Reelmaker lets you direct and create your own video highlight reel to share online.