Why is Charles Barkley Not in NBA 2k24?

By Edcel Panganiban January 12, 2024 08:54

Compensation Issue

Charles Barkley, a prominent retired NBA player, is not featured in NBA 2K24 due to a compensation issue. Barkley has been vocal about his absence from the game, highlighting that he is not provided proper compensation for the use of his likeness in the game. This lack of compensation has been a significant barrier to his inclusion in the NBA 2K series.

Advocacy for Retired Players

Barkley has expressed his focus on advocating for the well-being of retired players through the Retired Players Association. He has emphasized the need for adequate compensation for retired players' healthcare and other essential needs. His stance on this issue has led to his decision not to allow the use of his likeness in the game until the retired players receive appropriate compensation.

Financial Impact

Barkley pointed out the significant revenue generated by the NBA 2K game series, highlighting that the game makes hundreds of millions of dollars. He has stressed the importance of ensuring that the retired players are fairly compensated, indicating that he is not inclined to reconsider his position unless the financial interests of retired players are addressed.

Reggie Miller's Absence

In addition to Charles Barkley, the absence of Reggie Miller, another prominent NBA player, from NBA 2K24 is also due to the issue of compensation. Miller confirmed during an Instagram live Q&A session that he is not featured in the game because he was not offered proper compensation for his likeness. This further illustrates the significance of the compensation issue in determining the inclusion of retired players in the NBA 2K series.

Impact on Game Roster

The absence of Charles Barkley and Reggie Miller from NBA 2K24 has notable implications for the game's roster. Both players are celebrated figures in NBA history, and their absence deprives fans of the opportunity to play as or against these iconic players in the game. Their absence has been a point of disappointment for many fans who have eagerly anticipated their inclusion in the NBA 2K series.

NBA Retired Players Association

The issue surrounding compensation and the absence of players like Charles Barkley and Reggie Miller from NBA 2K24 underscores the broader concerns regarding the treatment of retired NBA players. The involvement of the NBA Retired Players Association in determining the use of players' likenesses in the game further emphasizes the need for fair compensation and representation of retired players.

League Initiatives

Despite the ongoing issues, there have been positive developments in addressing the concerns of retired players. The NBA announced a significant initiative to allocate $24.5 million to former ABA players, aiming to improve their quality of life. This initiative reflects a step in the right direction and indicates the league's recognition of the need to support and provide for retired players.

The absence of Charles Barkley and Reggie Miller from NBA 2K24 is primarily attributed to the issue of compensation and the advocacy for fair treatment of retired players. Their stance on this matter emphasizes the broader concerns regarding the well-being and representation of retired NBA players. While their absence has impacted the game, it also sheds light on the ongoing efforts to address the financial and healthcare needs of retired players, reflecting the evolving dynamics within the NBA and its treatment of its former players.