Kobe Bryant: 4-Time NBA 2K Cover Star



by NOUMAN RASOOL

Kobe Bryant: 4-Time NBA 2K Cover Star
Kobe Bryant: 4-Time NBA 2K Cover Star

Kobe Bryant, the late basketball legend who tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash in January 2020, will again be honored on the cover of NBA 2K. This marks the fourth time that Bryant's iconic image will grace the surface of the popular video game.

Fans eagerly anticipating the release of NBA 2K24 will have the option to choose between two covers: the "Kobe Bryant Edition" and the "Black Mamba Edition." These editions will be available for pre-order starting this Friday, allowing fans to secure their copies and pay tribute to the legendary player.

Greg Thomas, the president of Visual Concepts, the game's developer, expressed their commitment to honoring Bryant's enduring legacy and profound impact on the sport. In a statement, Thomas remarked, "As we celebrate 25 years of NBA 2K with Kobe Bryant, we commemorate his legacy and the generational impact he has had on the game of basketball." Thomas also highlighted the game's innovative features, such as crossplay, which the passionate NBA 2K community has requested.

Bryant's Unmatched NBA Legacy

Bryant's previous appearances on the cover of NBA 2K occurred in 2010, 2017, and 2021, showcasing his enduring popularity and influence. His illustrious career with the Los Angeles Lakers, spanning 20 years, included numerous accolades such as five NBA championships, 18 All-Star game selections, and an NBA MVP award during the 2017-18 season.

In recognition of his remarkable achievements, Bryant was posthumously elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2021. The tragic helicopter crash not only claimed the life of Kobe Bryant but also took the life of his daughter, Gianna, along with seven others.

Their passing sent shockwaves through the sports world and beyond, leaving an indelible void in the hearts of fans worldwide. Notably, NBA 2K24 will continue the tradition of featuring basketball legends on its cover, with Michael Jordan gracing one of the editions of NBA 2K23.

This serves as a testament to the enduring impact and lasting legacy of these iconic athletes. As the NBA 2K franchise evolves and looks towards the future, the inclusion of Kobe Bryant on the cover serves as a poignant reminder of his immeasurable contributions to the sport and his lasting imprint on basketball history.