In 2017 I was again afforded the opportunity to freelance with 2K Sports and create digital wall murals for each of the 30 NBA teams. These are available in the "MyCourt" area of the NBA 2K18 video game, allowing players to customise a virtual space with their favourite team designs.
For this year’s game, I looked to balance my abstract/textured style with a more thematic direction, and incorporate visual elements commonly associated with each team (landmarks, mascots etc.) This approach made for some really fun results, and allowed for a bit more diversity within each mural.
The designs were required well in advance of the games release, which meant information regarding the new Nike uniforms was limited. This posed an interesting challenge. In the end we chose to feature larger portrait shots of the players and limit full shots of the jerseys. This would reduce the need to re-work designs if the new Nike jerseys had a radically different look. There were a few tweaks along the way, and some very last minute jersey swaps (looking at you Kyrie!), but all in all this project was truly a pleasure to work on.
A massive thank you to the NBA 2K team and Art Director Joel Friesch for allowing me plenty of creative freedom on this project.
Following is a closer look at all 30 team murals. Let me know which is your favourite :)
