'NBA Live 18' Will Include WNBA Players and Teams

EA Sports announced the incorporation of all WNBA teams and players in the upcoming NBA Live 18.

Per Forbes' Brian Mazique, NBA Live Executive Producer Sean O'Brien commented on the video game's addition.

"We are extremely proud to partner with the WNBA and the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) on this groundbreaking occasion," O'Brien said. "The WNBA is home to some of the most incredible athletes on the planet, and we've been working hard to integrate them into our game in an authentic and meaningful way. This is only a taste of what we have in store, and look forward to working with the league on more great integrations in the franchise in the future."

For the first time, gamers can control the Los Angeles Sparks, throw down dunks with Brittney Griner and rain threes as Diana Taurasi. According to Polygon's Owen S. Good, EA Sports said the gameplay will be "specifically balanced to reflect the unique playstyle of the league and skills of its players."

EA Sports scanned several players, including Jewell Loyd, for their virtual debut. The WNBA sent Bleacher Report a first look at the Seattle Storm star.

WNBA

WNBA

WNBA

Although Mazique identified August 11 as the demo's release date, he said the WNBA won't be included until the full game comes out later this year. He added that their availability will be limited to the Play Now mode.

EA Sports welcomed women to its gaming world by including a dozen women's national teams in FIFA 16. Perhaps these are just the first steps to them breaking free with standalone franchises down the road. 

[EA Sports NBA Live]