San Antonio Spurs

Victor Wembanyama landed the NBA 2K27 Standard Edition cover this week, joining Caitlin Clark and Derrick Rose as this year’s cover trio. The 22-year-old called the honor a dream come true, and on paper, his inclusion makes sense. He’s coming off a unanimous Defensive Player of the Year season and led the San Antonio Spurs to their first Finals trip since 2014.

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There’s just one wrinkle. Wembanyama didn’t win it all. It was New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson who ultimately won the ring, but he is nowhere to be found on the cover. His absence isn’t sitting well with everyone around the league.

On Episode 28 of the “Crossover Podcast,” Tim Hardaway Sr. was asked about it and the Hall of Famer didn’t sugarcoat his feelings. He argued Brunson earned the spotlight that went to Wembanyama instead. 

“Jalen Brunson is a superstar. And Imma tell you this: for them to put Wemby on the cover of 2K, when Jalen Brunson won & beat them, is a travesty. 2K, you are wrong for that. This is Jalen Brunson’s time. You give it to Jalen Brunson. He conquered the big man,” he said.

The five-time NBA All-Star and 2022 Hall of Fame inductee, Hardaway spent his prime running the point for the Golden State Warriors’ «Run TMC» trio before becoming a Miami Heat cornerstone. He is someone who knows exactly what it takes to carry a team deep into the postseason, and he sees that championship identity in Brunson, not Wembanyama.

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2K has not explained why they chose Wemby over Brunson. However, the decision fits the company’s usual strategy. They traditionally prioritize international popularity and regular-season statistics over championship titles. This business model frequently frustrates hoops fans who value winning above all else.

Gamers won’t have to wait much longer to see how it looks, as NBA 2K27 drops worldwide on Sept. 4. Pre-orders for the Deluxe and Ultra Editions grant early access starting August 28.

Whether Brunson eventually gets his own cover remains to be seen, but for now, Hardaway is fed up with the snub.

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• Rich Paul explains why LeBron James decided against joining Victor Wembanyama and Spurs
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