*By Jacqueline Corba*
Denver Nuggets shooting guard Malik Beasley has already made it to the *real* NBA, and now the former first-round draft pick has his sights curiously set on the top tier of NBA2K, basketball's video-game analog.
"I think it's cool to see them compete, and it's different from actually being in the NBA," Beasley said Friday in an interview on Cheddar. "Even if they don't watch the NBA, if they are playing the games then they know a little something about us."
A real baller showing respect for the virtual ballers of the NBA's esports league is a telling sign of the times. Beasley said he enjoys playing video games like NBA2K with his teammates on the road, and said it's more than just a hobby.
"People always think that gaming is just bad if you are just sitting there and playing," he said. "If people get joy out of it, then enjoy that"
The NBA became the first professional sports league in the U.S. to launch an online league too. The NBA2K playoffs [tipped off Friday](https://cheddar.com/videos/e-trade-generation-trader-nba-2k-playoffs-kick-off) and were streaming on Twitch.
Building on the success of its inaugural season, the [NBA2K league announced] (https://2kleague.nba.com/news/nba-2k-league-announces-four-expansion-teams-for-2019-season/) recently it's adding four NBA teams ー the Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Minnesota Timberwolves ー to the lineup in 2019.
Beasley wants to Nuggets to get in on the action.
"I'm going to help create that."
For more on this story, [click here](https://cheddar.com/videos/nba-athlete-malik-beasley-dishes-on-esports).
Ashley Busch, model and Polo player, says that she uses digital platforms to show the presence of women in the coed sport, and to encourage more women to pursue it.
Meryl Streep joins the cast of Big Little Lies." The White House announces it will roll out immigration Framework. Cheddar speaks with Danica Patrick about how she is readying for this race and life after Nascar. President Trump announces new tariffs on imported solar panels and washing machines. Burger King releases a net neutrality commercial. Hewlett Packard's CEO announcers her new venture.
The professional race car driver says her sport is based on personalities. And with many big names getting out of the game, she says the industry has to get more interactive and offer more behind-the-scenes depth.
The European Union fines Qualcomm for allegedly violating antitrust laws. Starbucks and Disney announce pay raises and better employee benefits thanks to savings from the new tax reform bill. We talk to the directors behind the newest Netflix series, "Dirty Money," premiering this Friday, January 26th. And Brett Holts, VP of Nike Running Footwear, introduces Nike's newest sneaker, the Epic React Flyknit.
Brett Holts, Vice President of Nike Running Footwear, introduces Nike's newest sneaker, the Epic React Flyknit. The new shoe features a brand new foam compound.
The future of business is getting active. More and more companies are focused on the customer's experience, rather than just a product. This Changes Things host Brad Smith aims for the bullseye at "Kick Axe," New York City's first axe-throwing venue. He talks to Founder Ginger Flesher about the business of axe throwing.
Senior editor of FHM Magazine Nick Dimengo breaks down the Super Bowl matchup. He also explains the "Brady Effect" and whether or not "Patriots Fatigue" is a real thing.
The government is close to reopening. The Senate voted Monday in favor of a temporary spending bill to fund the government until February 8th. Netflix announces its 4th quarter earnings. Actor Nicolas Cage sits down at Sundance to talk about the making of Revenge Thriller "Mandy". Ralph Lauren unveils its 2018 Team USA Olympic uniforms for the opening ceremony.
James Yoder, CEO and founder of Chat Sports, breaks down the AFC and NFC Championship games. The Patriots barely escaped the Jaguars 24-20, while the Eagles pounded the Vikings 38-7.
WWE stars Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Roman Reigns, and AJ Styles discuss the 25th anniversary of WWE's flagship show, "Raw." The four stars all agree it's incredible to be part of such a special event.
