In a monumental stride for women’s sports and collegiate athletics, the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team has announced a historic partnership with PlayStation, making them the first SEC team ever—men’s or women’s—to be featured on the cover of an official Basketball video game. The announcement was made during a joint press conference with Sony Interactive Entertainment and University of South Carolina officials, drawing national attention and instant celebration from fans and athletes alike.
A Defining Moment in Women’s Athletics
Set to debut in Fall 2025, the upcoming PlayStation Basketball 2026 game will not only showcase the South Carolina Gamecocks on the cover, but will also include enhanced women’s gameplay modes, full NCAA women’s team rosters, and custom-built arenas reflecting the unique energy of college basketball.
This partnership signals a powerful moment of cultural shift: women’s sports are not only being recognized—they’re being centered.
“This is more than a cover,” said head coach Dawn Staley at the press conference.
“It’s a statement. A statement that women’s basketball matters, that our athletes matter, and that the world is ready to see them shine in every arena—real or virtual.”
Why the Gamecocks?
Few programs have dominated in recent years like South Carolina. Fresh off an electric 2024–25 season, which included a deep NCAA Tournament run and Ashlyn Watkins’ Oscar Robertson Trophy win, the Gamecocks have become synonymous with elite play, culture-shifting athletes, and passionate fan support. Their partnership with PlayStation was, in many ways, inevitable.
PlayStation’s head of global sports marketing, Lila Rivera, praised the team:
“South Carolina represents the pinnacle of excellence, resilience, and innovation in college basketball. They are the perfect ambassadors for this new era of gaming and sport.”
A First for the SEC—and a First for Women in Gaming
While NBA players have long graced the covers of basketball games, this marks a major evolution in gaming and sports culture: it’s the first time a women’s team has ever headlined a mainstream sports video game at this level. And to come from the SEC—a conference known for its powerhouse men’s programs—makes it all the more groundbreaking.
Fans can expect a fully immersive experience, including:
- Detailed player likenesses and signature moves (yes, Ashlyn Watkins will dunk).
- Career and dynasty modes tailored for women’s collegiate programs.
- Game commentary featuring women analysts and historic call-backs to iconic Gamecock moments.
The Future Is Here
This move is already rippling across the sports and gaming worlds. It represents progress, visibility, and validation for women athletes who’ve long been underrepresented in major entertainment platforms.
Junior forward and national star Ashlyn Watkins shared her excitement on social media, writing:
“Can’t believe I get to be part of this moment. This one’s for every girl who picked up a controller and dreamed big.”
The PlayStation Basketball 2026 featuring the South Carolina Gamecocks will be available on PS5 and PS4 platforms starting October 2025, with a collector’s edition including exclusive USC content and limited-edition Gamecock-themed controllers.
Preorders open in June.
