First Word: NBA Live 2000

Electronic Arts announced Friday the latest installment in the NBA Live series for the PlayStation, PC, and Nintendo 64. The company has also given GameSpot News the first word on many of the exclusive new features being implemented this year - the most impressive being a mode that lets you play as 60 of the greatest NBA players of all time. These historic players may also be traded to current NBA rosters.

Players can play one of five historic All-Star teams from the '50s, '60s, '70s, '80s, and '90s to see how they stack up against one of today's teams. Historic players include Kareem Abdul Jabaar, Bill Russell, and Oscar Robertson and will be highly detailed with their own signature looks, with tight or loose uniforms, and individual hairstyles.

Fans can also challenge their favorite NBA players to a game of one-on-one street ball on an outdoor court. The classic matchups are endless: Wilt Chamberlain vs. Shaq, Karl Malone vs. Dr. J, or Allen Iversen vs. Bob Cousy.

EA has also announced that - for the first time in a sports video game - NBA Live 2000 will expand its use of facial animations so players will be able to see NBA players shout after big plays. Along with the new facial animations, all-new transition sequences for fouls, injuries, high fives, knuckle touches, and free throws, as well as signature player moves like Tim Hardaway's crossover dribble, Glenn Rice's three pointer, and Reggie Miller's fadeaway jumper, will be included. The game will also offer a variety of new camera angles that deliver a close-up view of the NBA action, with focal-length zooming and TV-style cutscenes.

Kevin Garnett, one of the NBA's top young talents, has been signed by EA Sports to be NBA Live 2000's spokesperson. Specific rights include: TV, motion capture, design sessions, use of likeness on packaging, personal appearances, and special events. The 22-year-old Minnesota Timberwolves power forward is set to be one of the biggest stars of the next few years in the NBA.

NBA Live 2000 for the Nintendo 64, PC, and PlayStation will be landing on store shelves this fall.