Spike Lee, writer and director of the 1998 film He Got Game and New York Knicks superfan, appears to be tapping into his love of basketball again, this time by involving himself in the NBA 2K16 video game due out in the fall. Polygon has some additional information on how he is contributing, as well as a leaked image of what could be the three cover athletes.
Lee is working with 2K Sports on the game's story mode. "MyCareer" was introduced in 2K14, having evolved from the standard career mode involving a user's created player to one that follows a narrative path by including events that take place off the court.
In 2K14, the story involved a rivalry with another player who was drafted higher in the first round. With 2K15, it was about latching on as an undrafted free agent and rising to become a star.
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With continued talk that a sequel to He Got Game could still materialize, it makes sense for Lee to take on a project such as this and potentially help provide a more compelling and realistic storyline for the video game. He has a pre-existing relationship with 2K Sports from when he was involved in the marketing of NBA 2K10 but his influence now will be directly on the game.
The company has utilized entertainers including Jay-Z in recent years to help the game reach a more mainstream audience. Lee is widely identifiable for the passion he has for the Knicks and the NBA. It would seem that, along with his experience in making films, qualifies him uniquely for the role.
Expect an official announcement regarding Spike Lee and 2K16 before the NBA Playoffs conclude. That will bring clarity to just how much influence he will have on the upcoming edition in the series.
Bryan Wiedey posts sports gaming news and analysis daily at Pastapadre.com, is a regular participant in the Press Row Podcast and Press Row Hangout shows, and can be reached on Twitter @Pastapadre.