In a move that’s sending waves through both the gaming and sports communities, Take-Two Interactive has officially announced the development of a new college basketball video game, marking the company’s return to collegiate sports after more than a decade away. The news was revealed during a recent investor call, and the response was immediate: Take-Two’s stock surged to an all-time high, reflecting widespread excitement and confidence in the project’s potential.
The game, which is still in early development, is expected to feature over 100 licensed college basketball programs, making it one of the most comprehensive collegiate sports titles in the modern era. While Take-Two has remained tight-lipped about specific features, gameplay mechanics, or a release window, sources close to the project suggest it will carry the same level of polish and realism the publisher is known for in its flagship NBA 2K series.
For sports gamers, this announcement fills a long-standing void. The college basketball video game scene has been dormant for years, with the last major release—NCAA Basketball 10—hitting shelves in 2009. Legal complexities around student-athlete likenesses and compensation caused the genre to go dark, but the recent changes in NCAA policies have created a path for developers to re-enter the space.
Now that college athletes can profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL), companies like Take-Two are seizing the opportunity to build authentic, immersive experiences without the legal minefield that once prevented such titles. This game could be the first to truly embrace the new era of college sports, potentially featuring real player likenesses, NIL integration, and even dynamic in-season changes based on real-world events.
Analysts believe this move is more than just a one-off experiment. Take-Two’s deep resources, sports pedigree, and global distribution power suggest this new title could evolve into an annual franchise, similar to the wildly successful NBA 2K series. With March Madness being one of the most-watched sporting events in the U.S., the appetite for a college basketball video game is massive—especially if it includes tournament modes, conference play, and legacy team matchups.
The decision also aligns with Take-Two’s broader strategy of expanding its sports portfolio. While the company already dominates the professional basketball space, adding a college counterpart gives them control over an even larger share of the basketball gaming market. It also opens the door for potential crossover content, such as career modes where players can start in college and move into the NBA, or linked progression between games.
While fans will have to wait for more concrete details—such as platforms, release dates, and whether the game will include women’s college basketball—enthusiasm is already building. Forums, social media, and sports networks are buzzing with wishlists and speculation, showing just how eager the gaming community is to embrace college basketball once again.
For now, one thing is clear: Take-Two is going all-in on college hoops, and the court is wide open for a slam dunk.
