How to activate Takeover in NBA 2K25

In NBA 2K25, Takeover is a powerful mechanic that allows a player to gain momentum and dominate the game when performing well. It enhances key attributes, making it easier to hit tough shots, play lockdown defense, or pull off highlight-worthy dunks.

However, activating Takeover is not instantaneous - it requires consistent performance across multiple games. Here’s a guide to help you activate and maximize this mechanic in NBA 2K25.

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How to build your Takeover Meter in NBA 2K25

The Takeover selection screen in the game (Image via 2K Games)

When you start a game in MyCareer, you’ll notice a Takeover meter in the top-right corner of the screen. This meter fills up as you perform well in the game.

Actions like scoring baskets, grabbing rebounds, getting assists, and playing good defense will add to the meter. On the other hand, turnovers, fouls, and missed shots will cause the meter to decrease.

To unlock the full Takeover ability, you must fill this meter multiple times across several games. Initially, you’ll receive smaller boosts to your stats, but to get the full effect of Takeover (often referred to as the "Level 5" Takeover), you need to activate it in at least 15 games.

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Steps to activate Takeover in NBA 2K25

The Takeover mechanic explained in the game (Image via 2K Games)

Once your meter is full, you won’t need to manually activate Takeover. The meter will turn to flame, signaling that the ability is active, during which your player will receive boosts to specific stats based on the type of Takeover you’ve chosen.

To choose your Takeover ability, go to the Progression tab in the Pause Menu, and select the Takeover skill. Make sure to pick an ability that suits your players' strengths.

For example, if you’re using a point guard, you might want to focus on shooting or playmaking boosts rather than improving post moves or dunking, which aren’t their primary skills.

Takeover is easiest to activate in rec games or MyCareer, where longer game durations allow you to build the meter more consistently. In Park or 3v3 games, the shorter nature of these matches might mean you only get to use Takeover at the end of the game, limiting its effectiveness.

If you’re serious about unlocking and using Takeover regularly, it’s worth focusing on longer, more forgiving game modes where you have time to accumulate the necessary stats.

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Tips to unlock Takeover faster in NBA 2K25

Unlocking Takeover may seem like a grind, but there are ways to speed up the process. Here are some tips to do so:

• Play Streetball against Danny Dunkman: One of the quickest methods is to head to the Beach Streetball courts and play against Danny Dunkman, a 5'0" player. His size and skill make it easy for both guards and big men to dominate him on the court. You can use this opportunity to work on your shooting, rebounding, and defense. With Danny being an undersized opponent, he poses little contest to your shots and frequently misses, giving you plenty of chances to rack up stats.
• Consider MyCareer on Rookie difficulty: If you're struggling to activate Takeover, try playing MyCareer on Rookie difficulty. While it’s a slower process due to the game’s five-minute quarters, it makes getting your stats much easier, allowing you to fill the meter more reliably.
• Avoid tougher matchmaking games: Playing in competitive 1v1 or 2v2 matchmaking games can be challenging if you're still learning the ropes. These games can be sweaty, and turnovers or missed shots could prevent you from activating Takeover. Instead, stick to easier matchups until you're more confident in reaching the ability.

One interesting thing about NBA 2K25’s Takeover system is that unlocking the ability on one build carries it over to all of your other builds. This means that you won’t have to grind for Takeover on multiple characters, unless they have different types of Takeover skills.