2K Announces 1st International Cover Star, Giannis Antetokounmpo for ‘NBA 2K19’

Tom Regan
Games
Games

2K has just revealed that NBA 2K19 will feature the franchise’s first ever international cover star. Taking to the stage during a press conference in sunny Athens, the publisher announced that Milwaukee Bucks’ player and Greek legend, Giannis Antekokuunmpo, will be gracing the cover of this year’s game.

Antekokuunmpo – or, “The Greek Freak” – has earned himself a bit of a cult following over the years. As well as being almost seven foot tall, Giannis has managed to be the first player in NBA history to rank in the top 20 for total points, blocks, steals, assists, and rebounds simultaneously. In other words, he’s a bit good.

With basketball gaining a sizable following outside the US, it’s always great to see non-American players get recognition. And the cherry on top? Giannis’ story is particularly heartwarming. In something of a rags to riches tale, only a few years ago, 23-year-old Antetokounmpo sold watches on Athenian streets. Now, he graces the cover of a multi-million selling gaming franchise.

“I am honoured to be the first international player featured on the cover of NBA 2K19,” said Antetokounmpo. “I love playing NBA 2K so this means a lot to me. I have worked hard to earn recognition in the NBA and being on the cover of NBA 2K19 is a dream come true.”

“Giannis is the future of the NBA and his drive and athleticism have made him an undeniable force in the league,” said Alfie Brody, Vice President of Marketing for NBA 2K. “He’s the perfect cover athlete and we’re excited to feature him as our very first international cover star, as NBA 2K has a strong following with fans all over the world.”

While last year’s NBA Playgrounds and EA’s NBA Live have their fans, the NBA 2K series has undeniably ruled the virtual b-ball world. NBA 2K19 launches on September 11th, coming to PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One and PC.

If you REALLY can’t wait that long, however, you can always opt to get the NBA 2K19 20th anniversary edition, which launches a few days earlier on September 7th. It will set you back an eye-watering £84.99 though.

Tom Regan
Having written for everyone from Trusted Reviews to The Guardian, Tom is a London based writer who can't stop talking about games.