November 29, 2023
Jeron Artest
Basketball was more than just a game for me; it was a part of who I am. The court was my second home and sanctuary. But my life wasn't just about basketball. Video games held an equally special place in my heart, filling my evenings with quickscoping in Call of Duty, catching ‘em all in Pokemon Pearl, and modding huge worlds in Minecraft.
For me, both basketball and gaming were more than hobbies; they were ways I connected with the world. I would see everything from this analytical lens that was informed by basketball culture and game design, the way a filmmaker would see the world through their camera.
Basketball taught me about strategy and finesse, not just in playing but also in understanding the game’s business side. As I ascended to some of the highest levels of basketball, the significance of marketing and public presence became clear. We’ve all seen some of the best athletes struggle to take full advantage of career-changing opportunities, while others who aren’t as good are overhyped on social media and make a bigger cultural impact. This understanding of the balance of visibility, strategy, and skills was crucial as I ventured into the gaming industry with my company, Test Jar Labs.
At Test Jar Labs, we aim to create games that connect players together on a deeper level just as basketball does with its fans. Our first major project, Ghostie, was a testament to this vision. While the gameplay was engaging, our challenge was in marketing - a familiar hurdle in both basketball and gaming. It highlighted an essential lesson: no matter the talent or product, without the right exposure, it won't reach its potential.
After facing the challenge of making Ghostie a hit, I drew inspiration from my basketball roots. I realized that this blend of sports insight and gaming acumen was a major strength. This led me to push Test Jar Labs to major pivots, leveraging basketball connections and strategies to make our mark in the gaming world in a way that only we can do. Now we are developing novel sports gaming experiences that connects fans across the globe together and to their favorite teams in a way they couldn’t do before. And we are moving with confidence and conviction.
My journey with Test Jar Labs has been more than just about developing games or honing basketball skills; it's been about turning challenges into opportunities. It has shown me that reflection, empathy, and adaptability are key to paving my unique path to success. Be unafraid to do. That is the truth that will lead you to your dreams. Game on.
-Jeron Artest, Founder/CEO, Test Jar Labs
