Reviving College Basketball: Why a New "College Hoops" Game is Long Overdue

The buzz surrounding the return of college sports to gaming has reached a fever pitch, thanks to EA Sports’ upcoming College Football 26. With its predecessor breaking records and redefining what fans expect from a sports title, it’s time to ask whether it's finally college basketball’s turn. For years, NBA 2K has dominated the basketball gaming world, but the franchise has grown stagnant, lacking innovation in key modes like MyCareer and MyPlayer. A modern reboot of College Hoops could breathe new life into 2K’s offerings, drawing back lapsed players while attracting newcomers eager for fresh experiences beyond professional leagues.

One of the strongest arguments for reviving College Hoops lies in the potential for dynamic storytelling and immersive gameplay. The success of EA’s Road to Glory mode in College Football shows that players crave deeper narrative-driven experiences. Imagine stepping into the shoes of a five-star recruit navigating the pressures of recruitment, or leading a mid-major team on a Cinderella run through March Madness. These storylines are rich with possibility and offer something entirely different from the repetitive cycles found in current NBA 2K titles. Additionally, with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals now part of the real-world college experience, a new game could reflect this evolving landscape in ways never before possible in sports games.

A revival of College Hoops wouldn’t just be about nostalgia—it would also represent an opportunity to embrace inclusivity and elevate women’s basketball in gaming. The WNBA and NCAA women’s tournaments have seen surging popularity, yet female athletes remain underrepresented in major sports titles. By launching a next-gen College Hoops with full support for both men’s and women’s teams, 2K could set a powerful precedent. Featuring prominent female stars as cover athletes and offering robust gameplay modes for all divisions would not only align with cultural shifts but also attract a broader player base who value representation and authenticity.

Gaming has always had the power to connect fans with the sports they love in deeply personal ways. Bringing back College Hoops would do more than fill a gap in the market—it would honor a legacy, spark innovation, and open doors for underrepresented voices in the gaming world. As college football makes its triumphant return, the stage is set for basketball to follow suit. It’s time to let the hardwood shine again.