LeBron James will be the cover athlete for “NBA 2K14,” according to an announcement from 2K Sports Thursday. The announcement comes a day after the company released a trailer hinting at something big for coming June 6, also the same day as Game 1 of the NBA Finals.
"My friends, family and fans all know how much I love NBA 2K,” said the four-time and reigning MVP in a statement according to ESPN.com. "I remember, as a kid, getting so excited for the game to come out and see who was on the cover, and it's amazing to be a part of this great tradition. I love partnerships and opportunities that connect me directly with fans.”
"I know from my own experience and now watching my own kids, NBA 2K is among the coolest and purest ways for fans to connect to the NBA. I love being a part of it,” James added.
The fact the Miami Heat star is on the cover may not come as a shock to many people. What is the shock? It’s the first time in James’—who is a nine-time NBA All Star, two-time NBA All-Star game MVP, NBA Finals MVP, former scoring champ, Rookie of the Year, among many other awards—career that he’s been on the cover of an NBA-themed video game.
According to Pasta Padre, the cover announcement would not have come this soon if the Indiana Pacers had succeeded in defeating the Heat on Monday.
Senior Vice President of Sports Operations for 2K Sports Jason Argent said James was the “perfect” choice for the cover. Last year’s cover featured sort of a young guns theme including Blake Griffin, Kevin Durant, and Derrick Rose. The two previous years featured covers with Michael Jordan.
