GAMINGHAM PALACE: Last weekend for the first time ever, London transformed into the center of the NBA 2K League community when the NBA 2K League hosted the NBA 2K League European Invitational at Gfinity Arena. The event featured 20 players from Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Spain, Turkey and the U.K. competing over two days of gameplay, including a double-elimination tournament, in hopes of being made eligible for the 2020 NBA 2K League Draft.

From Friday, Dec. 13 to Saturday, Dec. 14, the NBA 2K League hopefuls were scouted by various NBA 2K League team personnel including Pacers Gaming Senior Director of Esports Operations and Head Coach Cody Parrent, 76ers GC Head Coach and 2019 Coach of the Year Jeff Terrell, and the U.K.’s own Harry “HazzaUK” Hurst of Knicks Gaming.

UK VIBES: In the double-elimination tournament, Team YKTV (You Know The Vibes) went on a four-game winning streak to capture the tournament title. The team was propelled by point guard Marcel “MGoCrzy” Stohl (Germany) who was named tournament MVP. Highlighted by scoring 15 of YKTV’s 18 first quarter points in the final round, the German tallied 28 points and 10 assists, leading Team YKTV to a 64-51 victory over team Park Boys. You can watch the full double-elimination tournament here.

MVP TIME: By virtue of being named MVP of the tournament, MGoCrzy was made eligible for the 2020 NBA 2K League Draft*. Watch his emotional reaction when NBA 2K League host Scott Cole informed him of the news, and check out his best plays from the event. Additional players who will earn draft-eligibility from the European Invitational will be announced at a later date.

*Players will become draft-eligible upon passing a background check.

QUOTES:

“We’ve been here for three days now and every day has gotten better and better. Obviously, today’s the best day because you’re live on stage. It’s such a good vibe. I’ve loved it so far.” – Tyler Jay “xTYJ-“ Warriner-Prince (England)

“The tournament was crazy. The event itself being the first-ever European Invitational was an amazing feeling. We had a lot of talent here. The competition was super dope. I’m just happy to have won.” – Marcel “MGoCrzy” Stohl (Germany)

“It’s my first time here in London. It’s been crazy. The venue here is crazy. The NBA 2K League is crazy. It’s impressive. I’m glad I came.” – Dario “pocholo-FIESTA” Guirao Grande (Spain)

“It would mean everything. Just being here and playing two to three games, it’s been incredible. I can’t wait to make the NBA 2K League. It’s my dream.” – Mario “avemario32”
Ortega Ariza (Spain)