History is being made in the video game industry!

EA Sports’ NBA Live has been in existence for 21 years. Now, for the first time ever, EA has added WNBA teams and players to the roster! That’s right, with NBA Live 18, you’ll be able to suit up and play as the Sky, the Liberty, the Sol and all of your other favorite WNBA teams!

This move is expected to be especially impactful for female gamers, who make up 41 percent of U.S. gamers, according to an Entertainment Software Association report.

“With EA’s expertise and ingenuity, the game will provide a terrific platform to showcase the players and the league, enabling fans to experience the WNBA in a new, exciting way,” WNBA President Lisa Borders said in a statement.

If you’re hoping to play as legends such as Lisa Leslie, Dawn Staley and Sheryl Swoopes, you may be a bit disappointed. According to NBC News, the game will feature only the current players within the league’s 12 teams.

But, don’t count out your classic-era favorites! NBA Live usually incorporates past players in its NBA Live Legend All-Stars Teams mode, so it’s likely that WNBA superstars of days past will appear in the franchise’s future.

“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,” noted NBA Live executive producer Sean O’Brien.

With this news, female gamers are finally getting to see themselves reflected in one of their favorite platforms.

“It was about time. The WNBA has been out for a long time. If it’s NBA, the WNBA needs the same respect,” said 29-year-old Black Girl Gamers member Tia Haas, who was able to preview the game. “There’s been so many WNBA players that should’ve been included, but this can open up the door for more inclusion in these games.”

Of course, WNBA players are excited to see themselves as well, and are happy that their fans will finally get to enjoy the gaming life with their likeness. Minnesota Lynx small forward Maya Moore said that she believes the new addition will also help WNBA players to serve as role models for young black girl gamers.

“It’s obviously not a real person they’re engaging on the screen there, but it’s the image of us and the image of a black woman being successful and athletic and fun and energetic — doing something well,” said Moore.

NBA Live 18 is now available!

Photo: Giphy

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