tripdubbleking

I'm not quite sure about 2K, I'm pretty sure though that that 2k never had special rights, they just got plain and simple permission from Kobe, MJ, etc.

Guys, its been about that time that we all probably want to get a highly rated Kobe card. Well, I'm not sure if EA is making an effort to conatct Kobe, but if Kobe dosen't want EA to license him, that's a different story. Now first off, if you don't understand how we get all these player cards in game that are NOT active in the NBA, I'll tell you: EA has to specifically and individually ask each retired NBA player for permission to license them (All current and active NBA players are not individually asked, EA asks the NBA and NBA PA (Players Association) for permission to validate all current players). Usually, a lot of those stars and legends that EA asks accept. However, back to the specific topic of Kobe. You may ask, "Wait, isn't there an 84 Kobe card already?" Well, this 84 Ovr Kobe was from the Soft Launch (AKA last year when he was still in the league so he was obligated through his NBA contract). This regards ALL retired NBA players as well. Now, we all probably want a good and strong, all-round 98 or 99 Ovr Kobe.