:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/54621513/usa_today_10022897.0.jpg)
The NBA 2K E-Sports league announced earlier today that various teams will compete in the league’s first season - set to launch at some point in 2018. 17 teams throughout the league were chosen to participate, with the Pacers being one of the teams selected.
Back in February, NBA commissioner Adam Silver announced that the league is teaming up with NBA 2K to create an E-Sports league in which gamers make up entire rosters that represent actual NBA teams. For example, the Pacers’ E-Sports team will feature a roster composed of five actual users, rather than any computerized play. Teams will then face off against one-another in a season, including a best-of-seven playoff format for teams that make the postseason. Players will receive
As Nate Taylor of the Indianapolis Star reported, the league will begin in either January or February of 2018, having its season mirror that of the actual year’s NBA season.
New Insider. The Pacers are among the 17 teams to enter the NBA 2K eLeague that begins in 2018. https://t.co/Qbhbxos5xW
— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) May 4, 2017
It is unclear as to how these E-Sports teams will be put together, but expect them to consist of some of the top gamers from all around the world.
"This is the first step in what promises to be an extraordinary league, bringing together the world's best gamers and showcasing elite competition on an international stage," said E-Sports league Managing Director Brendan Donohue. "Our teams have expressed tremendous enthusiasm for E-Sports, and we are looking forward to forming something truly unique for basketball and gaming fans around the globe."