Player faces are much more recognizable, and the resolution and detail of the court is higher than it was before. The coaches, too, are more animated--raising their hands in the air as a three-pointer goes up and in--and the crowd is more three-dimensional and lively.

During the game, players will encounter better defense against lay-ups; also, they'll have to break down defenses with quick passing, and post up and back their way to the basket. On defense, the computer always looks for easy buckets, which forces players to double-team opponents and keep scorers to the outside.

Franchise mode is the icing on the cake, as players can draft a team, and sign their own players and free agents by making offers and orchestrating trades. A few more special offensive moves would have been nice; but, as is, this is a must-have title for fanatic and casual b-ball fans alike. --Robb Guido

Pros:

• Excellent graphics and improved artificial intelligence
• Players can go online and play opponents across the country

• Could have used more offensive special moves