After two decades of making the best basketball video games around, 2K now aims to provide incredible real basketball as well. The company announced the creation of 2K Foundations to provide community assistance across the United States.

The organization’s mission states that the foundation will “support underserved communities across the nation by refurbishing basketball courts in neighborhoods that need them the most. The 2K Foundation plans to refurbish a dozen courts across the country in its first year. The list of cities includes Baltimore, Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Los Angeles.

2K Foundations has already provided Baltimore with a pair of sparkling new courts. The company joined forces with Volo City Kids to help raise awareness to the project. The Goodnow Community Center received a free seven-week long basketball clinic for young players to hone their skills.

In Cincinnati, the foundation teamed with local artist Adrienne Gaither to paint two unique courts for the community. The company also provided some jerseys and other gear for all the players at the Lincoln Recreation Center.

The gaming giant won’t just focus on basketball, though. The foundation also aims to help develop lifelong skills within the communities. 2K Foundations will “provide essential technology upgrades in local community centers that will enable STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education programming for youth.” By coupling athletics with education, 2K is strengthening these communities in the present and preparing them for the future.

Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations for NBA 2K Jason Argent explained the selfless move succinctly.

“Basketball has been so good to us, and we want to pay it forward to the communities that need it most, by helping to enhance the lives of youth both on the court and in the classroom.”

Furthermore, Microsoft has agreed to help 2K Foundations by “outfitting Xbox One S gaming stations and other equipment in each of the locations.” It appears that the publisher’s compassion is contagious; let’s hope other game companies catch the bug.

NBA 2K19 is now available for PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. Players can get the standard version featuring Giannis Antetokounmpo on the cover, or the 20th Anniversary Edition featuring LeBron James.

How amazing is this, gamers? Do you think EA or other publishers will follow suit? Do you see the foundation going international? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. For more gaming news and updates, be sure to follow DFTG on Facebook and Twitter!

Thanks, PlayStation Lifestyle.