With its 2026 edition, NBA 2K takes a new step in the integration of female basketball. No more playable players, a better represented WNBA and game modes that value their stories. Marine Johannès, leader of the New York Liberty and the French basketball team, confides in her feeling about this evolution and in the growing place of women in this world followed video game.
NBA 2K26 emphasizes female basketball, with more playable players and the WNBA which is better integrated. What does this represent for you as a player?
“I think it’s great pride. We see that the League, it rises more and more in power, it gains in popularity from year to year and therefore suddenly, to be represented in this popular game that is NBA 2K, it is something incredible. But it will highlight the league and it will also allow women’s basketball in general to be put forward. »»
As you said, it is a game that is monitored worldwide, so what does it represent for you personally to be present in this game?
“I find it great, I find it fun at the same time. Because, I played much more so when I was young. And so I did not one day think I had my character in this game, it is something that I really did not think possible. So no, it’s a little pride. It’s really funny to see that. »»
When you play a game like NBA 2K, do you prefer to play with your own character or do you prefer to play with other players or players?
“I will prefer to play with other players, other players. I don’t really like to see myself in real life, I’m a little shy, a little reserved so I will prefer to play with someone else. »»
And if you could compose your major 5 of all time, mixing players and players, who would you choose?
“So I would put Stephen Curry in one, Michael Jordan in 2, I will put” Stewie “(Brianna Stewart) in 3, A’ja Wilson in 4 and Victor in 5.”
– So there is French in this team.
– Even a little French, a little boy, a little girl.
If we go on a 5 100% French?
“So there will be Victor 5. But if we can mix all generations, I will put Tony Parker, Gabby Williams, Nicolas Batum, Boris Diaw and therefore Victor, in 5.”
And as on NBA 2K26, there is a 3 mode against 3. We say that you are in a team, of course, and that you have to team up with a French player and player. Who would you take?
“If I have to put myself in it, Victor and Gabby. It would be funny I think. »»
Many young people discover basketball thanks to NBA 2K, what do you think of the idea that for some the video game will be a first contact with basketball?
“Yes, it’s something top. I think there is generally, some players who will discover basketball via this game. Maybe there are players who do not yet know all the rules, all the teams, all the players and therefore there who can also take a WNBA player. It’s cool to discover certain things too via this game. It can also make them want for the future to go and see real matches, watch more on TV or even register in a club. So no, that will be great for basketball in general. »»
This year, the mode My career From NBA 2K incorporates stories centered on players, therefore the WNBA, with suitable scenarios. Do you think that, as well as the other new features as on Myteam Where is there the complete integration of the WNBA, can help to develop the perception of women’s basketball in France and internationally, therefore outside the United States?
“Also, basically, that’s for sure. There may be some players who do not know all the WnBa teams, all the players, so it may make them want to follow the league a little more. I find it great for them to discover that. It will also allow them to see the world in which we are, our conditions, teams, land. So it’s really cool. »»
And the fact that you are so many French players in WNBA this year, does it lead to an effervescence a little between you, an emulation?
“It is sure that we are really happy and proud to meet with so many French women in this league. I think it is also for all the work, whether with the French team or in club in France. This is the first time that we have had as many players from another nation in this league. So no, having 10 French women is something quite unique and I think we are very proud of that. »»
And finally, last question: if you could send a message to players or fans who will discover you thanks to NBA 2K26, what would it be? Do we try a 3-point shot on one foot?
“If it is possible yes. After no, I think it would be especially: I hope they will have as much fun playing with an NBA player as with a WNBA player. I hope it will make them want to follow the league and here it is, to have fun in any case to play. »»
