By Keaton Hargett, FrontPorchSports.com
EA Sports just dropped a late-night bombshell. On June 30, they teased the return of their College Basketball series via an X post (@EASPORTS), flashing that EA-branded ball—15 years after NCAA Basketball 10. A 2028 release is rumored, and fans are buzzing. But let’s be real: EA’s been getting smoked by 2K in the basketball gaming world for years. How does this stack up against last year’s College Football 25 revival, and should 2K be the ones running the show instead?
EA vs. 2K: A One-Sided Rivalry
Last year, College Football 25 came back strong after an 11-year hiatus, selling like hotcakes and earning solid marks. It leaned on nostalgia, updated rosters, and smart tweaks like wear-and-tear mechanics, proving EA can still deliver. Now, College Basketball is getting the same treatment, with that court-side ball hinting at March Madness glory. But here’s the catch: when it comes to basketball, EA hasn’t stood a chance against 2K’s dominance.
For over a decade, 2K’s NBA series has owned the market, with slick graphics, deep storylines, and a loyal fanbase—despite gripes about microtransactions. EA’s last basketball effort faded into obscurity, while 2K kept refining their game. College Football 25 showed EA can rebound, but can they translate that to hoops against a juggernaut like 2K?
Fans Weigh In
The X reactions to EA’s post hint at frustration with 2K. @BolWrld flat-out says they’ll buy CBB over NBA 2K, fed up with its pay-to-win model. @OwnHimMarjon’s “2k GOING OUT OF BUSINESS” jab and @NotTheExpertYT’s shock suggest fans want a change—better AI, deeper rosters, maybe even women’s hoops. @EASPORTSCollege and @DP0YS crave that authentic college feel—rivalries and packed arenas—that 2K’s NBA focus has ignored. @IsItOutEa’s “Massive W” shows hope, but it’s clear they’re tired of 2K’s reign.
Should 2K Take Charge?
EA’s been outgunned in basketball for so long that it raises the question: why not let 2K handle college hoops too? 2K’s got the experience, the polish, and a track record of keeping fans hooked, even if it’s with a side of cash grabs. They’ve dabbled in college basketball before, and their current NBA engine could easily adapt. EA’s College Football 25 success shows they can compete, but their basketball history suggests they’re playing catch-up. If 2K took over, we might get a seamless blend of their expertise with the college game’s unique charm—something EA’s still proving it can pull off.
The Bottom Line
EA’s College Basketball return is a bold swing, riding College Football 25’s momentum. Fans want a fresh alternative to 2K’s grip, with real college flavor and innovation. But with EA’s track record, it’s hard to bet against 2K staying on top. Should 2K step in instead? Drop your take in the comments.