For those of you who obsess about these sorts of things, Shaquille O'Neal has been named to the cover of NBA 2K7. Take-Two says the decision to put the Miami Heat center on the game cover was spurred, in part, by the game's new post play mechanics that were inspired by Shaq.

"Shaquille O'Neal remains one of the most dominant, exciting, and charismatic athletes in the NBA," stated Erik Whiteford, vice president of marketing for 2K Sports. "Shaq is well-known for his fun-loving nature, great work ethic, and incredible athletic skills. His dominating game and winning attitude make him the central figure on every team he is a part of, including 2K Sports. We're very pleased to be working with Shaq again with NBA 2K7." "You only get to represent the best by playing with the best," said Shaq. "NBA 2K7 is the game for champions and I'm proud to be a part of the best basketball game anywhere."

Is it just me or has making a game's cover sort of lost its buzz? Brian Crecente