The upcoming NBA 2K25 video game will feature Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum as its cover athlete, a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. Tatum’s selection comes in the wake of his recent NBA Championship win and a record-breaking $314 million contract extension, reinforcing his position as a premier athlete in the sport.
NBA 2K has established itself as a cultural phenomenon, linking the realms of gaming, sports, and entertainment. Being chosen as a cover athlete represents a high honor, and Tatum’s achievement at just 26 years old underscores his impact on basketball. In an exciting first, 2K Sports will also pair Tatum with a WNBA player, A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces, for the All-Star Edition of the game. This initiative is part of the “Ball Over Everything” campaign, marking a significant step in recognizing both leagues.
There will be a total of four editions of NBA 2K25, each offering unique features and gameplay experiences. Tatum is only the third player from the Celtics to receive this honor, joining the ranks of Kevin Garnett, who was featured in 2K9, and Larry Bird, who shared the cover in 2K12.
Previously, Tatum served as the primary athlete for 2K's mobile player-versus-player competition, but this marks his debut as the face of the console and PC versions of the franchise—a dream he's held since childhood.
“It’s an honor to be named a cover athlete for NBA 2K25,” Tatum remarked. “I’ve played this game since I was young, and being on the cover has always been a dream of mine. Winning an NBA title and seeing this come to life is incredibly rewarding.”
Ronnie "Ronnie 2K" Singh, who leads lifestyle and content marketing at 2K Sports, has expressed admiration for Tatum’s abilities, suggesting his unique contributions to the game make him an ideal choice for the cover.
Tatum's status as the MVP in 2K's official season simulation for 2022-23 further validates his prominence in the sport. This summer, he will compete with the USA men’s Olympic basketball team in Paris, seeking his second Olympic medal after winning gold in Tokyo 2020.
By adding a 2K cover to his accomplishments, Tatum continues to solidify his legacy in basketball. For 2K Sports, this collaboration bridges the gap between fans and one of the sport's most exciting talents, emphasizing the importance of both NBA and WNBA athletes in the gaming landscape.
Wilson will also be recognized as the first WNBA player on the global version of the game and will headline an exclusive release only available at GameStop in North America. This partnership with Tatum is a significant acknowledgment of the WNBA's growing popularity and its integral role in the NBA 2K experience.
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