Brooklyn Nets and Marvel Comics Introduce NBA's First Superhero

It wasn't that long ago that Marvel Comics brought ESPN the Magazine readers a chance to see the future of the NBA in LeBron: King of the Rings. Now, they've teamed with the Brooklyn Nets to create the NBA's first official superhero, the BrooklyKnight. According to the team, "He is equipped to handle almost any threat with a protective metal B on his chest, metal knee, elbow, and face coverings, defined muscles, including a six-pack, and a multi-functional cape." The BrooklyKnight, a play on the fact that locals call themselves "Brooklynites," was designed with Marvel Comics and announced back in June. The mascot made its first appearance at tonight's home game, along with the Nets's new fight song, "Brooklyn: Something to Lean On" by Grammy winner John Forte. Tonight's game was the Nets's first in Barclays Center after more than 30 years in New Jersey. "Brooklyn now has a new Super Hero to call its own," said Brett Yormark, CEO of the Brooklyn Nets and Barclays Center. "BrooklyKnight is a superior combination of strength, power, and confidence -- sounds just like Brooklyn to me." "Marvel Entertainment has outdone itself with its newest Super Hero creation for the Brooklyn Nets," Brooklyn Nets Chairman Christophe Charlier said. "We are honored to have collaborated with the company of the world's mightiest Super Heroes."

"As a Brooklynite and a hardcore hoops fan, for me to get the opportunity to help create a Super Hero for my home borough's new team was a dream come true," said Axel Alonso, Editor in Chief, Marvel Entertainment. "Working with the Nets staff, we have created a team Super Hero that is unlike anything the NBA has ever seen; a timeless character who can stand shoulder to shoulder with icons like Spider-Man, Captain America, Wolverine, and Thor. Let's go, Nets!" A comic book featuring the character--written by Jason Aaron and drawn by Mike Deodato--was given away at the game. The cover can be seen above and sample pages below. Fans attending the game November 11 against the Orlando Magic will receive a trading card featuring the character from Marvel Custom Solutions. "Forged from the blood, sweat and tears of Brooklyn itself -- always ready to defend his home and defeat any challenger -- all hail the BrooklyKnight!" exclaimed Bill Rosemann, Editor, Marvel Custom Solutions. "When Nets fans meet their guardian, they will immediately know that the House of Ideas has once again unleashed a hero who will soon be known all over the world for his nobility, grit, and strength. Brooklyn, your champion is here!" Almost all of Marvel's superhero characters call New York their home base, but most of the iconography of their comics seems to be based in Manhattan.