EA Sports Reveals Return of College Basketball Video Game with 2028 Targeted Release

EA Sports Confirms College Basketball Video Game Return, Eyes 2028 Release

In a major announcement that’s sent sports gaming fans into a frenzy, EA Sports has officially revealed plans to bring back its beloved college basketball video game series, targeting a release in 2028. This news marks the end of a long absence, with the last EA college basketball title hitting shelves over 15 years ago.

A Legacy Returns After Years of Hiatus

EA Sports was the driving force behind the NCAA March Madness series from 1998 through 2008, later rebranded as NCAA Basketball 09 and NCAA Basketball 10. Both EA and 2K ceased production of college basketball games after 2009, largely due to complicated issues surrounding licensing and the use of collegiate athletes’ likenesses. Fans have been vocal about wanting a new installment, especially as interest in college sports video games has surged in recent years.

The successful return of EA’s college football franchise last year, with College Football 25 becoming the best-selling sports video game in U.S. history, clearly demonstrated the market’s appetite for collegiate sports gaming. The positive response to that game’s return made college basketball the logical next step for EA Sports—a move that the company has now officially confirmed, much to the delight of fans.

The Path to the New Game: Inside the Announcement

The details surfaced after a memo, obtained by sports media journalist Matt Brown for his Extra Points newsletter, revealed that the College Licensing Company (CLC) had issued a request for proposal (RFP) to develop a new college basketball title in November 2024. According to the memo, five companies showed interest, and three submitted formal bids. Ultimately, the CLC recommended that conferences accept EA Sports’ proposal, setting the stage for a 2028 launch.

Fans got an extra dose of excitement when EA Sports teased the series’ comeback on their official social media channels. The company posted a simple image of a basketball emblazoned with its logo and the message:

“Bring the Madness. Let’s run it back. #CBB #ItsInTheGame”

This spontaneous message instantly trended across platforms like Twitter/X, fueling anticipation and speculation among sports gaming communities.

What to Expect from the 2028 Release

While concrete gameplay details remain under wraps, industry watchers anticipate the new game will follow the precedent set by the return of College Football 25—likely featuring real-life collegiate athletes, authentic conferences, and a robust suite of modes. The shift in NCAA policies regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) makes it possible for athletes to be included and compensated, opening the door for an authentic college hoops experience for fans and players alike.

The announcement has sparked widespread excitement online, with fans and even college programs hinting at a renewed chance to see their favorite teams and players rendered in virtual form. “There’s nothing like College Sports,” EA Sports declared alongside its social post, capturing the excitement shared across the community.

For continued updates and fan reactions, follow EA Sports’ Twitter/X account, and dive deeper into sourcing and interviews at Extra Points. For a look back at the excitement and context surrounding other top video games, see the coverage by Gamespot on record-breaking titles.

As the countdown to 2028 begins, sports gamers can look forward to the long-awaited return of one of college basketball’s most iconic digital experiences.