NBA 2K25 getting stuck on the loading screen usually means the game is struggling to connect to its servers. This can stem from server issues like outages or high traffic, or from software conflicts on your device.
Corrupted system caches, outdated game files, or conflicting background apps on your end can disrupt the game’s loading process, causing it to freeze.
Before you start troubleshooting, check if the NBA 2K25 servers are running. Server problems often cause this issue, so checking the server status can save time.
If the servers are fine, the issue is likely on your device or with the game installation. Below are solutions to fix these local problems.
Reinstall the Game
If the problem continues, try reinstalling NBA 2K25. This replaces all existing game files, which might be corrupt due to incomplete updates, disk write errors, or software conflicts. Corrupted files can stop the game from loading properly, because critical parts (like textures, scripts, or configuration data) may be missing or damaged. Reinstalling downloads a fresh copy of all files from the server, skipping any local corruption and making sure the game runs as it should.
Clear System Cache
Clearing the cache is a helpful troubleshooting step because it removes temporary files that might be outdated or corrupt. These files help the game load faster by storing frequently used data (like textures or settings).
However, if the cache isn’t updated properly—due to crashes, updates, or software conflicts—it can cause errors like freezing or infinite loading screens.
Clearing the cache forces the game to rebuild these files, removing any corruption that could be causing problems.
Step 1: If you’re using an Xbox, clear the Cache by going to Settings > System Settings.
Step 2: Access the Storage Options.
Step 3: Select the Storage Device and press Y on your controller to access device options.
Step 4: Select Clear System Cache and confirm when prompted.
Step 5: For PlayStation 4/5 and Xbox Series X|S / Xbox One, completely turn off the device. Then, unplug the power cables after the device shuts down.
Step 6: Wait for 1-2 minutes, plug the power cables back into the console, and turn it on to see if the issue is resolved.
Clear Persistent Storage (Xbox)
Persistent storage manages cached data used by the console, such as Blu-ray disk access optimizations and frequently accessed system files. This cached data can become outdated or corrupted over time—often due to interrupted updates, power issues, or software bugs.
When this happens, the console may struggle to read or process critical game files, leading to crashes, freezes, or performance problems.
Step 1: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the Menu.
Step 2: Go to Profile & System > Settings.
Step 3: Navigate to Devices & Connection and select Blu-ray.
Step 4: Choose Persistent Storage, then select Clear Persistent Storage.
Step 5: Try launching NBA 2K25 again to see if it’s still getting stuck on loading.
Clear NBA 2K25 Cache
If clearing the system cache and persistent storage didn’t fix the issue, the problem may be related to corrupt temporary files specific to the game itself. NBA 2K25 stores local cache files—like saved preferences, temporary textures, or connection data—which can become outdated or damaged. These files are separate from your system’s general cache, meaning they require specific cleanup. Clearing the game’s dedicated cache makes sure no corrupted data is interfering with its startup process.
Step 1: Press the Xbox button to open the menu.
Step 2: Go to My Games & Apps and highlight NBA 2K25.
Step 3: Press the menu button on the controller and choose Manage Game and Add-ons.
Step 4: Navigate to Saved Data and select the Reserved Space option.
Step 5: Click Clear Reserved Space to confirm.
Step 6: Once done, check if the issue is resolved.
Rebuild Database (PlayStation)
Rebuilding the database reorganizes and optimizes your console’s storage system. This process scans for corrupted or fragmented data, removes outdated or redundant system files, and clears cached files that may be causing conflicts.
By streamlining the storage structure, the console can access game resources more efficiently, which can resolve loading issues, improve performance, and reduce the likelihood of errors like freezing or crashing.
Step 1: Completely turn off the PlayStation, then hold the power button until you hear two beeps.
Step 2: Press the PS button on your controller to view the options.
Step 3: Select Rebuild Database and press OK to proceed.
Step 4: Once it’s done, check if the NBA 2K25 loading issue is resolved.
Hopefully, one of these steps got you back in the game and enjoying NBA 2K25. If you’re still facing issues, consider checking the official NBA 2K support channels or community forums for further assistance.