“Play Like Morant”: Memphis Grizzlies Star Ja Morant Lands Massive Deal with PlayStation, Becomes NBA 2K26 Cover Athlete with Custom Dunk-Driven Game Mode
Memphis, TN — In a groundbreaking move that fuses elite athleticism with digital gaming stardom, Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant has inked a blockbuster deal with PlayStation to become the cover athlete for NBA 2K26. The deal, described by insiders as one of the largest endorsement agreements between an NBA player and a gaming giant, also includes the creation of a brand-new, high-octane game mode: “Play Like Morant.”
Known for his gravity-defying dunks, lightning speed, and fearless playstyle, Morant has become one of the most electrifying players in the NBA. PlayStation and 2K Sports are capitalizing on that energy by introducing a gameplay experience that immerses fans into Morant’s signature style. The “Play Like Morant” mode will put players in high-flying, fast-break scenarios, challenging them to replicate Morant’s real-life heroics on the virtual court.
A Game Mode Built for Air Time
In this special mode, gamers will experience:
- Dunk Challenges: Featuring real-life throwdowns from Morant’s career, players must replicate each slam in cinematic fashion.
- Morant Moments: Situational recreations of clutch plays from his standout games.
- Skyline Court: A custom-designed arena that mimics a Memphis rooftop with city lights and a digital crowd chanting Morant’s name.
The idea, according to 2K developers, was to “capture the artistry and swagger” of Morant’s game. “He doesn’t just play basketball—he performs it like a mixtape. This mode gives players a taste of that adrenaline,” said a senior developer on the 2K team.
Cover Announcement Sparks Online Frenzy
The announcement was made with a cinematic reveal trailer featuring Morant flying through virtual skies, set against a backdrop of PlayStation’s signature blue lightning. Within minutes, “#PlayLikeMorant” trended across social media platforms, with fans and fellow athletes celebrating the news.
Ja Morant shared his reaction during the official announcement in Memphis:
“Being on the cover is a dream, but getting my own game mode? That’s something different. I’m thankful to PlayStation and 2K for letting me share my game with the world in this way.”
PlayStation Partnership: A Milestone Deal
While exact figures weren’t disclosed, industry analysts believe this is among the highest-paid individual athlete-brand partnerships in gaming history. It further cements Morant’s status not just as a basketball star but as a global marketing powerhouse.
PlayStation also confirmed exclusive early access for PS5 users, along with limited-edition “Morant Edition” consoles and controllers styled with his logo, jersey number, and signature dunk silhouette.
A New Era for NBA Gaming
This collaboration marks a shift in how gaming and sports intersect. With Ja Morant’s meteoric rise, the PlayStation and 2K teams saw a chance to redefine what it means to be a cover athlete—not just a face, but a force within the game.
As NBA 2K26 prepares to launch, one thing is clear: fans won’t just play basketball—they’ll Play Like Morant.
