Yesterday we were lucky enough to be invited to an event in to honour the inaugural season of Toronto’s brand new official NBA 2K team, the Raptors Uprising GC. NBA 2K has a cult following in both the gaming and basketball community, so it was only a matter of time before the NBA took notice and created an official e-sports league devoted to the video game. The league consists of 17 teams, each aligned with NBA franchises, with each team being comprised of five starting players, and one reserve.

The event we took part in was a double-hitter; first, some IRL basketball on the Raptors’ old practice court, and then some food and 2K at Real Sports Bar and Grill afterwards. The actual basketball runs were set up in a tournament-style bracket, with the winners taking home box seats to the Raptors 2018/2019 home opener – not bad at all, huh? Each squad was made up of one player Raptors Uprising GC team, and four media members/influencers. Our team put up a solid fight, but in the end, we were bounced in the semi-finals.

Immediately after, we were ushered over to Real Sports where we were treated to a deliciously catered private room, with NBA 2K set-up and ready for us. After the meal we hit the digital court and were quickly introduced to how well these e-sports players really are. We had a fighting chance when we played on the hardwood, but once we were competing on a screen, we were toast.

All of this was centred around the #LOTTOMAXSWISH contest being held by the Raptors Uprising GC and Lotto Max, who are going to send one lucky winner and three friends to NYC to watch the Raptors Uprising GC play in the NBA 2K League live studio. The prize includes round trip airfare, 2 nights’ accommodation, and a chance to meet the entire squad. This contest is so dope, and we know you’d like to enter, so click the link HERE.

Thanks once again to MLSE for the amazing opportunity, and congrats to the Raptors Uprising GC squad on their inaugural season.