The digital representation of the late basketball icon within a specific iteration of a popular video game franchise refers to a virtual collectible item. This virtual item allows players to incorporate the athlete’s likeness and in-game attributes into their virtual basketball teams within the confines of the simulation. As an example, players could acquire this particular asset through in-game purchases or by completing specific challenges within the “NBA 2K17” environment.
The significance of this digital asset stems from several factors. It allows fans to engage with a celebrated athlete in a direct, interactive manner. Furthermore, it represents a tangible, albeit digital, connection to a player’s legacy and contributes to the player’s in-game competitive advantage through enhanced player statistics and abilities. Historically, these virtual items gain collectible value, influenced by factors such as rarity, player popularity, and overall game meta.