From its introduction as The Park in NBA 2K14 to its rebranding as MyPARK and subsequently The Playground, the mode has gone from an online offshoot of NBA 2K’s career mode to its own fully fleshed out and immersive experience.
I believe you could spend money for these points, but I never did, because progression was the entire point, to start out weak and work your way up. NBA 2K14 next gen will also be receiving a patch to correct a couple of issues with saves and connectivity. I'm sure this is why 2K changed the model, to make sure the mode was UNPLAYABLE without forking over some more cash.
