The 2019-2020 NBA season was suspended back in early March, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, players and fans alike have used NBA 2K20, to simulate postponed matchups and past the time. The trend continues with the NBA, the players union, and 2K announcing a players only NBA 2K20 tournament beginning April 3rd!
The cast of competitors includes Kevin Durant, Trae Young, Demarcus Cousins and more! The beginning of the tournament will be broadcasted on ESPN and ESPN2, featuring 16 players, seeded by their in-game rating and tenure. Friday’s winners will advance to the quarterfinals slated for April 7th on ESPN2, with the semifinals and final broadcasting April 11th on ESPN. The NBA has its own esports league, established 3 years ago, so the company is no stranger to competitive gaming, Not to mention the league is rich with players who are avid gamers away from the court.
The victor will be crowned the “Ultimate NBA 2K20 Champion” and have $100,000 granted to a COVID-19 relief charity of their choice from 2K. Jason Argent, 2K Senior Vice President, Sports Strategy and Licensing, spoke on the venture saying “We’re thrilled to partner with the NBA and NBPA to bring basketball back to fans throughout the world and to help those in need during these uncertain times…” The postponement of the NBA season continues to be indefinite, and the tournament is a way for the league to provide content to basketball fans in the interim. It’s also an outlet for guys like Kevin Durant and Demarcus Cousins who have not seen on-court action in months due to injuries.
Those without cable tv can view the tournament via the ESPN App, NBA App, and NBA.com. The NBA and 2K social channels like Twitter, Twitch, and Facebook will also stream games. Round 1 coverage begins at 7 pm with future round time unannounced.