New to 2K- Finding rookie squadmates and online play

I just got 2K for free from Playstation and it’s replaced COD as my daily play. MyC build is moving along and I’m starting to get fairly used to MyTeam.

But my defense is absolute trash, as is my Basketball IQ most of the time. I’ve got some friends helping me out sometimes, but i’m solo mostly.

How tf do i find players willing to be patient with me? Should I just stay off Rec or Theatre games (or the event they had this weekend for example) until i’ve got more skill?

First week, i ended up in a squad game on accident and motherfuckers were threatening my mama for even turning on the damn system. Would love some advice on how newbies should respectfully enter the online community and how to develop more skills. Tired of sucking.