Caitlin Clark becomes first WNBA player on global NBA 2K27 cover
Iowa's own Caitlin Clark is adding another historic achievement to her growing list of accolades. The former Hawkeyes superstar and current Indiana Fever guard has been named a cover athlete for the upcoming NBA 2K27 video game, becoming the first WNBA player to appear on her own global premium cover.
2K Games announced on July 22 that Clark will grace the cover of the Deluxe Edition of NBA 2K27, set for release on September 4, 2026. She joins San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama on the Standard Edition cover and Chicago Bulls legend Derrick Rose on the limited-time Ultra Edition.
A milestone for women's basketball
Clark's cover marks a significant step forward for women's sports representation in the gaming industry. While the WNBA has had its own special-edition covers over the past five years featuring players like Candace Parker, Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird, Sabrina Ionescu, A'ja Wilson, and Angel Reese, those were separate WNBA-branded versions. Clark's cover is the first time a WNBA player has been featured on the main global Deluxe release.
Being on the cover of NBA 2K27 is special because this game reaches fans all over the world, Clark said in a release. To be the first WNBA player on her own global cover means women's basketball gets to show up on that stage too, and I am proud to be part of that.
What the cover looks like
The Deluxe Edition cover features Clark in a navy Indiana Fever uniform, dribbling with her back turned against a vivid orange-red backdrop. She is wearing a bright yellow pair of her soon-to-be-released Nike Caitlin 1 signature shoes.
How to get the Caitlin Clark edition
NBA 2K27 will be available in three editions. The Standard Edition costs $69.99, the Deluxe Edition featuring Clark's cover costs $99.99, and the limited-time Ultra Edition costs $149.99. Early access begins August 28 for anyone who purchases the Deluxe or Ultra Edition.
Pre-orders for the Deluxe Edition are available through the Microsoft Store, PlayStation Store, or Steam. However, fans hoping to display the cover as a physical collectible will be disappointed. 2K Games confirmed the Deluxe Edition is digital-only and will not be sold as a physical copy.
Perks for the Deluxe Edition include 100,000 in-game currency, bonus player cards and power-ups, and a Clark jersey for their created player to wear.
Clark's 2026 season so far
The 24-year-old is averaging a career-high 21 points per game and shooting 43.5% from the field, while averaging 7.9 assists and 3.8 rebounds in 23 games played this season. Clark will appear in her third consecutive All-Star Game this weekend, alongside Fever teammates Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell.
Indiana is coming off a 123-88 win over the Connecticut Sun on July 22, when Clark, Boston, and Mitchell all finished with at least 20 points.
Why this matters for Iowa
For Iowans who watched Clark dominate at Carver-Hawkeye Arena, this global recognition is a point of pride. Clark's journey from West Des Moines to national stardom has been a testament to hard work, talent, and the values of community and competition that resonate deeply in the state.
Her appearance on the NBA 2K27 cover not only elevates her personal brand but also shines a spotlight on women's athletics. It sends a message to young girls across Iowa and the country that their dreams on the court can lead to the biggest stages in the world.
USA TODAY Network reporters Brian Haenchen and Meghan L. Hall contributed to this report.