NBA Take-Two Media Unveils New NBA 2K League
On November 3, 2025, NBA Take-Two Media (often known as NBAT2) revealed a groundbreaking transformation of the NBA 2K League (2KL), designed to enrich the long-term collaboration between the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Take-Two Interactive Software. This innovative version of the league not only showcases competitive gaming but also emphasizes cultural elements, engaging various participants—from die-hard fans to professional players and content creators—regardless of their gaming proficiency.
The essence of the 2KL is captured by its motto: "where competition meets culture." During the upcoming season, fans can expect original content where NBA players and popular creators like Jesser will compete in unconventional settings, including a series of online and real-life tournaments. What distinguishes this league from its predecessors is the unprecedented open-ladder competition that invites fans to participate actively.
Andrew Perlmutter, CEO of NBAT2, assured that the new 2KL will redefine sports entertainment. He stated, "With the 2KL, we are crafting a unique universe of entertainment blending competition with rich content and emotional storylines. This expansion of the NBA2K universe will allow fans to see their favorite athletes and creators in an entirely new light, venturing beyond the realm of competitive play."
In conjunction with its launch, NBAT2 has established a multi-year partnership with the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), which paves the way for deeper involvement from NBA players within the league. This partnership enhances the narrative possibilities, enabling the development of stories focused on individual players, making their journey part of the collective experience.
The league is set to kick off with six teams: the Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons, Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz, and Washington Wizards. Each team will feature a distinctive lineup of creators and NBA players, including talents like Zach 2K, BEARDABEAST, Kofie Yeboah, Gradey Dick, Alex Sarr, and Duncan Robinson. Furthermore, select fans who excel in gameplay will also be given a platform to showcase their skills throughout the season.
Honorary Commissioner Jesser, a prominent figure on YouTube with over 35 million subscribers known for his basketball content, will helm this ambitious project. Along with a board of celebrity guests like gymnast Suni Lee and MMA fighter Demetrius Johnson, Jesser will play a vital role in player drafts, ensuring the league remains exciting and unpredictable.
The inaugural season will debut with "MyPLAYER Mayhem," a reality series led by Jesser featuring players and creators. The premiere episode is scheduled for November 5, released on the 2K League's YouTube channel, leading up to two live-streamed tournaments on Twitch set for November 8-9 and November 15-16.
This exciting new endeavor aims to create unique storylines and occurrences as rich as the surrounding culture, blending competitive action with entertainment. Starting November 16, fans can sign up for the innovative "Next Fan Up," an open 2K ladder enabling any player to join their preferred team and rise through ranks by participating in gameplay and social media challenges.
The NBA 2K League represents a new era for basketball fandom, merging the excitement of gaming with communal experiences between players and fans. For ongoing updates and to learn more, visit
nba2kleague.com and follow @nba2kleague on Instagram, Twitch, and YouTube for the latest news and happenings.
About NBA Take-Two Media
NBA Take-Two Media serves as a bridge between basketball and culture, operating under a partnership model that delivers authentic gaming experiences and social-first content. Located in Brooklyn, New York, the firm dedicates its efforts to fostering an inclusive environment where fans can engage with basketball through multiple avenues, such as gaming, music, fashion, and more, in collaboration with various creators and influencers.
About the NBA
The NBA is a premier global sports league with a mission to inspire and connect fans through basketball. Its extensive outreach includes multiple leagues and a significant international presence, magnified through social media channels, live events, and digital platforms.
About the NBPA
Established in 1954, the NBPA advocates for the rights and interests of NBA players, facilitating opportunities in both professional basketball and post-career endeavors through strategic partnerships and outreach programs.
About Take-Two Interactive Software
Take-Two Interactive, headquartered in NYC, leads the world of interactive entertainment, famously known for its acclaimed game titles developed under the Rockstar Games, 2K, and Zynga labels. The company continuously strives for excellence across platforms, creating memorable gaming experiences for audiences around the globe.