EA CEO Hints at Return of College Basketball Games

Electronic Arts' CEO is hinting at the return of EA College Basketball, just a month after an enigmatic EA Sports tweet reignited excitement among basketball gaming enthusiasts.

Bring the Madness. Let’s run it back. #CBB #ItsInTheGame pic.twitter.com/iBNhGxn2yj

— EA SPORTS (@EASPORTS) June 30, 2025

During today's Q1 earnings call, CEO Andrew Wilson addressed questions about College Basketball's potential comeback, likely prompted by the viral tweet. Following June reports and this clever teaser, EA is indeed planning to revive College Basketball, though fans will need to wait until 2028 for its release.

Here's Wilson's complete, cautiously optimistic statement:

We're not ready to share full details yet, but considering our success with College Football, it's clear college sports attract some of the most passionate fans globally. That enthusiasm extends to basketball as well. We're observing growing momentum and engagement around college basketball. The dedication from fans, athletes, and universities makes these sports truly exceptional and distinct.

However, that passion comes with high expectations for authentic experiences: capturing the intensity of gameplay, representing the energy, traditions, and unique elements of each school and rivalry. We believe we've achieved this with College Football and would be thrilled to replicate that for basketball. This includes all 350 programs, men's and women's teams, iconic traditions, and March Madness.

Overall, college sports represent a significant opportunity. We're proud of our work and ongoing commitment to College Football. With our team expertise, technology, and dedication, we're confident we can deliver an equally outstanding College Basketball experience. As we progress, we'll share further updates.

According to The Athletic, EA Sports' proposed College Basketball game, endorsed by the Collegiate Licensing Company, will feature all Division I men's and women's teams (730 total). The series, launching in 2028 with six planned releases, will include popular modes like Dynasty Mode, Team Builder, Road to Glory, and Ultimate Team, similar to College Football.

EA's last College Basketball game was released in 2009. The series was discontinued due to legal disputes over athlete likenesses and lower sales compared to College Football. However, the recent success of College Football appears to have renewed EA's interest in basketball, though they may face competition from 2K Sports, as hinted by an official NBA 2K social media post.