UNC Basketball: Michael Jordan named NBA 2K23 cover athlete

UNC basketball legend and NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan will once again grace the cover of the annual NBA 2K video game. 

In 2023, also known as “The Jordan Year,” it’s only fitting that Michael Jordan has been selected to be the cover star of NBA 2K23.

On Monday, 2K Games announced that Jordan will be featured as the cover star for two of the game’s special editions. This will mark the fourth time that the former UNC basketball star will be appearing on the cover of the game.

Along with the cover announcement, 2K Games also provided some insight into a gaming feature that will return for this year’s edition. For the first time since 2011, fans will be able to once again complete the Jordan Challenge, as the original challenges from the NBA 2K11 edition have been revamped to also include five new challenges for fans to complete and enjoy.

NBA 2K Vice President of Global Marketing Strategy Alfie Brody had this to say about the decision to have Jordan featured on this year’s cover:

"“After making 23 the most recognizable number in sports, it was only fitting that for NBA 2K23, we introduce the Michael Jordan Edition. Additionally, we’re thrilled to introduce a brand new premium edition of the game with the NBA 2K23 Championship Edition, as no other player embodies the word ‘champion’ like Jordan.”"

Along with the Jordan features that are included with these special editions of the games, fans who purchase the limited-edition version will also receive a 12-month subscription to NBA League Pass.

Pre-orders will go live on July 7, as the game will be officially released on September 9.

Jordan simply revolutionized the sport of basketball, and his impact on the game will forever be remembered.

Of course, UNC basketball fans will clearly remember that his legendary career began in Chapel Hill.

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