SALEM, OR - On a day meant to celebrate the fathers who shape us, few stories resonate quite like that of Russell Wilson and his late father, Harrison Wilson III.
Though Wilson stepped away from the 2K Online Franchise during Season 32, his impact on the league and the inspiration behind his journey remain deeply rooted in the lessons passed down by his dad. Harrison Wilson was more than a former Dartmouth wide receiver and accomplished lawyer. He was the voice in Russell's ear, the hand on his shoulder, and the quiet foundation beneath every game-winning drive.
In multiple interviews, Wilson has opened up about the profound influence his father had on his life, both on and off the field. “My dad used to always say, 'There's a king in every crowd,'” Wilson once recalled. "He taught me to have purpose, perspective, and perseverance. Those are the three Ps I live by."
Harrison passed away in 2010 due to complications from diabetes, just months after attending Russell's wedding. But his memory and voice still echo in the quarterback's life. Whether it was game day wristbands with the word "Dad" or imagining Harrison in the stands during Super Bowl runs, Wilson has always carried his father with him - and not just in spirit.
"He's my king in the crowd," Wilson once said. "He's got the best seat in the house."
In a 2K OLF career that has spanned four teams - the Seattle Seahawks, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, and Pittsburgh Steelers - Wilson's calm leadership and clutch performances mirrored the very traits his father embodied: wisdom, patience, and strength.
Though he remains unsigned entering Season 33, Wilson has hinted at a return to the league, and wherever he lands next, Harrison's fingerprints will be all over the moment.
So today, as families around the country celebrate Father's Day, we honor not just Russell Wilson's legacy, but the father who made it all possible.
