The fears that esports could be marginal ideas that 2k22 mt only attract avid gamers, but having little commercial value beyond that were proven to be false. Forbes stated last year that worldwide esports revenue was projected to exceed $1.1bn by 2019.
"Even in the past three years, our three seasons, my conversations now are far different than what they were prior to when the league began because it's becoming more of regular, and it's not something that's atypical;" Donohue emphasizes. Kirk Lacob, Warriors Assistant Director of Marketing, recently told me that esports was "absolutely growing into a mature sport".
Donohue goes over the benefits of a league that is operated from the NBA office in regards to getting partners. "The benefit of being the NBA 2K brand, is that we have fantastic connections with these partners and so we sort of take their hand and navigate eSports. We can also help them understand how to leverage eSports to increase the visibility of their brands."
Another advantage for companies who participate in the NBA 2K League has, is that the sport is familiar. Donohue highlights that esports can occasionally be difficult for players. "You do not have to play to enjoy the games. If you're familiar with basketball then you'll understand it," Donohue says.
It's also quite common to see advertisements within the game. Donohue explains that it's normal to view the basketball game on courtside signs. This allows players to "be part" of the experience.
The NBA 2K League is a highly-rated and profitable game thanks to its loyal following. Donohue states that "we feel like...we're just scratching it." He points out the massive potential of 1.9 billion NBA 2K League players on social media.
Then there's the question of whether NBA 2K can operate as an avenue for new basketball fans as Washington Wizards owner and media mogul Ted Leonsis has theorized. In actual fact, Donohue has his own case study, but it's a little more close to home. My son was playing 2k and then suddenly he came to me. He began quoting the Warriors roster, Steph Curry and I thought, "How is it possible that he's up till 10 pm in the evening to take in these games? He's only buy Nba 2k22 Mt seven years old!" All through 2K, he's studying the game and who's good according to their scores in 2K."
