Embodying the "down underdog" mentality in Season 7

With the NBA 2K League Season 7 schedule dropping this week, reigning Coach of the Year Mootyy is confident that his new-look team will compete well against the loaded Eastern Conference. 

“Our 3v3 group is definitely the strongest [conference], I would consider it the group of death,” Mootyy explained. 

“The guys and I are happy about it though because we wanted to play the best, we openly accept any and every challenge. We feel incredibly strong in that mode and will be one of the teams to beat, so we want to test ourselves against the best.

“For our 5v5 group, we still have some time until it starts – but we are ready to experiment once Harry and Milo are in market. We have 3v3 to worry about first and I want to help put out the best version of the team possible in that mode.” 

The team has been built around the 3v3, adding the likes of 3v3 champion Bagmotion and one of the best guards in the mode, Ceez. Coach Mooty explained he is confident in his squad with these new additions. 

“I’m not worried about any team we face, honestly. In 3v3, any team can win in that mode on any given night as far as I’m concerned,” he said.

“It’s us vs us every game. As long as we put the work in and execute on game days, we will succeed.” 

Adopting the mantra of the “Down Underdogs” last season, Mootyy said that this season it will remain a key part of the team’s identity in 2024. 

“Given the strength of schedule, I believe our “underdog mentality” will play a key factor in our success,” he said.

“Just like last season, teams and people have been counting us out already so it’s nothing new. The guys have been adding that negativity and fuel as motivation. For me, it’s like shooting a wooden bow and arrows into a fire, just adds fuel.

“Just know when you see that angry kangaroo logo on the schedule, it won’t be an easy night for you. I told all the guys that this isn’t a rebuild, we expect to go out and win. They’ve all bought in already and are motivated to silence the doubters. This is the most excited and optimistic I’ve ever been about a roster going into an NBA 2K League season. This is going to be a special group, I can’t wait to watch them shine.” 

The team has completely changed from last season. Only one player will carry over from Season 6 in Harry, who will be moving to shooting guard to accommodate for Ceez. The team saw unpredictable success, making a statement in year one by making the 2K League 5v5 Finals. 

Mootyy explained that he believes this retooled team will be just as fun to watch and as competitive as last season. 

“Our lineup for both modes differs completely from last season. Our 3v3 team will have multiple dynamic scorers and won’t have to rely on our defence as much,” he said.

“I’m confident in Ceez’s skill set and abilities. I feel that most locks won’t be able to completely shut him down which will free up opportunities for Bag and Plu. 

“For 5v5, we also had to rely on defence a ton last season. This season we will have a duo of Ceez and Harry who can create and score at will. Bag and Plu both are legitimate offensive creators from the corners and Milo can shoot with the best of the Center’s. 

“I truly feel we have five players who are threats on offence, which will be exciting for me to utilise them in plays. I’m really excited about how versatile and well-rounded our lineups are for both modes.”

The season starts on Friday, March 1 at 10:45am AEDT or Thursday, February 29th at 6:45pm ET live via the NBA 2K League’s Twitch channel.