Jordan named NBA 2K23 cover athlete

Michael Jordan will grace two covers of NBA 2K23, the video game publisher announced Tuesday.

The Chicago Bulls icon is featured on the "Michael Jordan" edition of the popular game, while his autographed jersey is front and center for the "championship" edition.

"After making 23 the most recognizable number in sports, it was only fitting that for NBA 2K23, we introduce the Michael Jordan edition," vice president of global marketing strategy for NBA 2K Alfie Brody said in a statement.

"Additionally, we're thrilled to introduce a brand-new premium edition of the game with the NBA 2K23 championship edition, as no other player embodies the word 'champion' like Jordan."

Jordan has been the NBA 2K cover athlete on three previous occasions. He first appeared on the front of NBA 2K11, which featured the "Jordan Challenge." The game mode will be re-introduced in NBA 2K23.

Last year's edition featured a collection of players, including Luka Doncic, Kevin Durant, and Candace Parker. Additional cover athletes will be unveiled over the next few days.

NBA 2K23 will be released on Sept. 9.