Although it was certainly a surprise that 2K released a cover like this especially at the end of the game's rollout, the pattern of the game itself probably suggested that this would happen some day. But, despite that, this wasn't even 2K's concept, it was J. Cole's. "Three and a-half years ago in the past NBA 2K23 MT, when he was dunking at one of the break times during The All-Star Weekend Saturday Night, J. Cole said 'Ronnie, I'd love to be in MyCareer and help you to think about the possibility of that."

Ronnie 2K tells Complex. "I worked with our team on bringing this to life, but it was perfect to work with him. When we released the teaser, everyone thought it would become another NBA player...it allows us to experience the world of fashion, culture, and music where 2K is sitting at the table."

NBA 2K has evolved from just another hyped product in the gaming industry. It's now an iconic moment in pop culture and its intersection of music, pop culture fashion, sneakers and, of the course, basketball, has elevated the franchise to heights that is unmatched by any other sport. With its latest edition, NBA 2K23, the game set records after announcing J. Cole as the first ever rapper to appear on its cover NBA 2K with the Dreamer Edition. While it's certainly a surprise that 2K released a cover like this at such a late stage in the rollout, the trend of the game may have hinted at this happening some day. However it wasn't 2K's idea, it is J. Cole's.

"Three and a half years when he shot a ball on one of the breaks during the All-Star Weekend Saturday Night, J. Cole said 'Ronnie I'd like to be on MyCareer and be a part of the concept of it"" Ronnie 2K tells Complex. "I was part of our team to bring this idea to life but it was a great opportunity to work with the man. When we announced that tease Buy NBA 2K MT, everybody thought there was going to be another basketball player...it allows us to live in the world of fashion, culture, and music and 2K is seated at the table now."