The initial entry in a streetball-themed basketball video game series, it established a foundation for arcade-style gameplay combined with elements of real-world basketball. Characterized by exaggerated moves, trick shots, and a focus on individual player skill, it departs from the simulation-oriented gameplay found in many basketball games. It features several NBA stars from the early 2000s, allowing players to create teams and compete in various streetball courts.
Its significance lies in popularizing streetball culture to a wider audience and introducing a more accessible and entertaining style of basketball gaming. It offered a departure from the more serious and realistic portrayals of the sport, appealing to players seeking a more casual and over-the-top experience. Furthermore, it laid the groundwork for subsequent titles in the series, influencing the evolution of sports gaming by emphasizing creative expression and showmanship.