For A’ja Wilson, sharing NBA2K cover with longtime friend Jayson Tatum is extra special

UNCASVILLE, Conn. — For Aja Wilson, First ever WNBA cover athlete Winning the NBA 2K championship was already a big deal, but the honor was made even more special by the fact that he shared it with longtime friend, Celtics forward Jayson Tatum. The Las Vegas Aces star Boston Celtics They were both USA Basketball Camp champions during their high school years, and their friendship has only grown stronger over the years.

Now at the height of their respective careers, they're practically the faces of their respective leagues, according to NBA2K at least. Wilson, who is the cover athlete for NBA2K 2025, WNBA Edition will also feature Tatum on the All-Star Edition cover, marking the first time the popular video game has had a dual-league cover.

It's a happy moment for the two friends.

“We went to USA Camp together and we all had a lot of fun together, so it's pretty awesome,” Wilson told SB Nation. “To be on the cover with JT, who I literally grew up with, and to see our careers blossom the way they have, is pretty special.”

Both have enjoyed great success since their high school days: Wilson, 28, has already won two MVP trophies and two WNBA championships and is on track to win her third, while Tatum, 26, is fresh off his first NBA championship and is the league's all-time leader in playoff points by age 27.

“We've always had a good bond,” Wilson said. “I love his son, Deuce. It's really cool to see his career blossom the way it has. JT's a good kid. He's a good kid. He's always been a good friend to me.”

Wilson admitted that she's not much of a gamer, but the opportunity to be on the cover of a popular video game has piqued her interest in playing the game.

“I’m not a huge fan of video games, but I’m going to give it at least a little try because it’s a whole different audience. [in]”It means a lot to me and my family,” Wilson said.

For both players, it's an honor that will last a lifetime.

“The sustainability of this is going to be enormous,” Wilson said. “I'm excited to watch it thrive and be a part of its growth.”