Just putting this information in text form for any future runs that may be helpful in trimming needless time wastes:

-Not using a memory card. This saves a little loading time and prevents possible mix-ups when you are required to pick a profile (for NBA Challenge runs) -Leaving replays on and skipping them in the setting. This saves time by automatically resetting the position of your characters, which does not happen when replays are off. This saves about half a second automatically, but also up to 3 seconds when a character is knocked down or really out of position which makes them require to run to the right spot. Also one less thing to menu.

-Be A Legend Specific: Saving upgrades for the games in New York. Upgrading your character will send you to New York in the menu. Although the routing is still debatably still in works, it is likely the fastest routes involve upgrading your character when having to go to New York to save requiring to menu/instantly being there instead of having to also menu to that location.

Definitely not all of the things that could be added to this list, but for now is a good start for anyone interested in running this game/improving their runs. Will probably edit/revise any additions found.