Georgia Women’s Basketball Secures Historic Partnership with PlayStation, Makes Cover of 2026 Basketball Video Game
In a groundbreaking moment not just for the University of Georgia, but for women’s athletics as a whole, the Georgia women’s basketball team has inked a historic partnership with PlayStation—becoming the first Southeastern Conference (SEC) team, male or female, to be featured on the cover of a major basketball video game.
The 2026 edition of the popular Basketball 2K video game series will showcase the Georgia Lady Bulldogs front and center, marking a seismic shift in how women’s sports are represented in both media and gaming. This partnership is more than just a branding move—it’s a powerful cultural statement that reflects the evolution, visibility, and dominance of women in collegiate athletics.
A New Era for Women’s Sports Marketing
PlayStation’s decision to spotlight the Georgia women’s team is part of a broader campaign to elevate women’s sports into mainstream recognition. For years, female athletes have been underrepresented in gaming, endorsements, and national media campaigns. That landscape is changing, and Georgia is now leading the charge.
“This is a monumental day for Georgia Athletics, our women’s basketball program, and women’s sports at large,” said Georgia Athletic Director Josh Brooks. “This isn’t just about being on a cover. It’s about representation, inspiration, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”
The deal includes exclusive behind-the-scenes content, custom PlayStation accessories featuring Georgia branding, and enhanced NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities for players. Select Georgia athletes will also participate in promotional campaigns, streaming events, and even voiceovers within the game.
Cementing the Bulldogs’ Legacy
Georgia’s women’s basketball team has steadily become the gold standard in SEC basketball over the past few years. With back-to-back Final Four appearances, an SEC title, and a wave of elite recruits choosing Athens as their destination, the Lady Bulldogs have earned every accolade coming their way.
Head coach Katie Abrahamson-Henderson, affectionately known as “Coach ABE,” has built a powerhouse rooted in defense, discipline, and unity. “Our team has worked incredibly hard to earn respect on the court,” said Coach ABE. “To see that hard work pay off in such a historic way is beyond rewarding. This is for every girl who ever dreamed of being seen and celebrated on this kind of stage.”
The Bulldogs’ fast-paced, high-IQ style of play has made them a fan favorite, and their influence has grown well beyond the SEC. Now, with a global brand like PlayStation embracing their story, the Bulldogs’ reach will only expand further.
A Cultural Milestone in Gaming and Beyond
Representation in video games isn’t trivial—it’s transformational. Young athletes growing up will now see women athletes on the cover of a game they love, potentially influencing how they see themselves and their future in sports.
This moment follows recent movements in both women’s college basketball and the WNBA, where stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Aliyah Boston have helped shatter attendance, viewership, and merchandise records. Now, Georgia’s inclusion in Basketball 2K26 propels this momentum forward in a unique space: the digital gaming world.
PlayStation’s VP of Global Partnerships, Marissa Grant, highlighted the significance of the decision: “We didn’t just want to follow the wave of excitement in women’s sports—we wanted to drive it. Georgia embodies everything we look for in a partnership: excellence, leadership, and cultural relevance. Featuring the Lady Bulldogs is a celebration of progress, and we’re honored to make history with them.”
The NIL Impact: A New Path for Players
With the NIL era in full swing, this partnership unlocks unprecedented opportunities for the players themselves. Athletes like All-American point guard Jasmine Carter and breakout freshman forward Tiana Monroe are expected to benefit from endorsements, social media collaborations, and exclusive merchandise drops tied to the video game’s release.
For many of these student-athletes, this deal isn’t just a milestone for the program—it’s a game-changer for their personal brands and financial futures.
Carter, a senior leader and face of the Bulldogs’ resurgence, expressed gratitude for the moment: “We’ve been working in the shadows for a long time, proving ourselves day in and day out. Now, to be on the cover of a video game, representing Georgia and the SEC, it feels like all the hard work is finally being seen.”
SEC and NCAA Reactions
The SEC released a formal statement applauding the move, calling it “a landmark moment for our conference and a defining chapter in the history of collegiate sports.” NCAA President Charlie Baker echoed the praise, calling the partnership “a model for future collaborations between athletics and major global brands.”
This announcement is also expected to influence other top programs and game developers to further integrate women’s sports into mainstream gaming culture. Whether it’s in future Madden, FIFA, or 2K titles, Georgia’s breakthrough is likely to open doors that have long remained closed.
Looking Ahead
The Georgia Bulldogs are more than a basketball team—they’re a symbol of what’s possible when talent, opportunity, and vision align. This partnership with PlayStation is not just about a cover image; it’s about rewriting the narrative around women’s sports.
From a packed Stegeman Coliseum to millions of screens worldwide, the Lady Bulldogs are taking their place at the forefront of a movement that is finally getting the attention—and the respect—it deserves.
When Basketball 2K26 hits shelves in October 2025, don’t just expect a video game. Expect a statement, one that says the future of basketball includes everyone—a
nd that the Georgia Bulldogs are leading the way.