NBA 2K announced that it had officially signed a multiyear partnership with the 2019 NBA No. 1 Draft Pick, Zion Williamson. Under the agreement, Williamson is to be integrated into the different game initiatives, consumer events, brand creative, and social activations. Considered as the highest-rated rookie since 2011, Williamson is expected to make his game debut in NBA 2K20 when the game offcially launches on September 6.
Williamson was indeed the strongest player heading to the 2019 NBA Draft and was drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans. Prior to his entry to the NBA, Williamson played for Duke and depsite playing only one season, was named both ACC Rookie of the Year and ACC Player of the Year.
With the NBA 2K deal, Williamson is now part of an elite group of NBA athletes that have represented the game over the years. This include the likes of Kevin Durant, James Harden, Shaquille O'Neal, LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and NBA 2K20 cover stars Anthony Davis and Dwyane Wade.
In a statement, Williamson said he is more than excited to be part of Team 2K and to be part of a global phenomenon where people the world over can play as him. He added that he is "ready to put my imprint on basketball culture and be a part of the team that represents what’s next in the sport.”
NBA 2K Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations Jason Argent said that Williamson represents the best of the league's up and coming talent and they are excited for him to be part of Team 2K. Argent related that for at least two decades, "NBA 2K has identified and worked with the best basketball talent in the world. It’s been incredible to witness what Zion can do on the court and we’re excited to grow with him throughout his career.”
According to a report by Bloomberg, despite a lot of things going for him, Williamson promises to remain grounded. In fact, during the party for the video game announcement, he arrived with his father and some members of his management team rather than with a large entourage. In addition, he didn't immediately go towards the bigger names in the room but opted to approach kids who were playing the game.
NBA 2K20 is rated E, and is set to be released September 6.
