This is a cool article about how the NBA is using technology to improve the game on all levels.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/ian_thomsen/03/18/countdown.nba.changes/index.html?xid=cnnbin&hpt=Sbin

First, they are trying to implement the same technology used in Avatar to be able to track every movement by every player in a game. The goal is to have every move recorded (from technology put into the uniforms) so that coaches and analysts can see how players performed in a game, what worked, what didn’t, and what needs to be improved. Player tracking could also make for unbelievable amounts of statistics to be open to everyone.

The NBA also envisions 3D technology being used in the future. The idea is to have the 3D TVs in clubs and venues nearby when the games are sold out, so people can go and watch and get an experience like they are watching from the floor.

Lastly, the NBA, like everyone else, is trying to figure out the best way to use interactive media. Instead of just sending fans highlights with videos and stats on their phones, they want to get them more involved. So they plan on polling the audience and getting them involved through promotions, contests, and prizes.


I think this is a great move for the NBA. All three of these new ideas could really get the fans involved and bring new interest to the game. I’m not sure how popular 3D technology is going to be in the future, but perhaps if there are certain venues specifically for watching sold-out games in 3D, people will come. The interactive media polling idea is a great one. I think this will really catch on and stay for a long time. People love their phones, their opinions, and prizes. And the player-tracking technology could really bring new information to every game. Depending on how much the fans would have access to, it’d really get them involved too. Involved fans = happy fans. Happy fans = more money.