After more than a decade on the bench, college basketball is making a comeback in gaming. EA Sports has officially announced the return of its college basketball series, marking the first new entry since 2009’s NCAA Basketball 10. The announcement came via social media this Monday, with a simple but electrifying message: “Bring the Madness. Let’s run it back.”
What we know so far
- Working title: EA Sports College Basketball – The game will not carry the “NCAA” branding, though the NCAA is involved as a licensing partner.
- Dual-gender integration: For the first time, the game will feature both men’s and women’s Division I programs from launch.
- Tentative release window: EA is targeting a 2028 launch, citing the massive scope of development; over 700 teams, arenas, mascots and audio assets.
- Gameplay features (in development):
- Deep Dynasty Mode with NIL budget management, coaching trees and transfer portal
- A narrative-driven Road to Glory career mode
- Ultimate Team-style rosters with mixed-gender options
- Built on the Frostbite engine, shared with EA’s College Football series
Why now?
The revival follows the massive success of College Football 25, which became the best-selling sports game of all time. With NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals now enabling player compensation, EA has the green light to bring back college hoops with real athletes and authentic branding.
While details are still developing, EA’s teaser has already ignited excitement across the sports gaming community. Expect more information in the coming months as development ramps up.
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