NBA Teams Embrace Technology to Bring Game to Visually Impaired Fans
PORTLAND, Ore. — The portland Trail Blazers and other NBA teams are pioneering a new way for visually impaired fans to experience the excitement of live basketball games.
As January, some Blazers fans have been using a device that translates real-time game action into tactile feedback.
This innovative technology, developed by the startup OneCourt, uses vibrations on a specialized tablet to indicate the ball’s position.
OneCourt’s Haptic Technology Enhances Fan Experience
The OneCourt device features a rubber surface with raised contours representing a basketball court.
Connected via Wi-Fi to live NBA statistics, the device allows users to follow the ball’s movement in real-time through haptic feedback.
Varying vibration intensities signal the ball’s location, points scored (1, 2, or 3), and an earpiece provides supplementary audio cues for events like rebounds and missed shots.
The device also includes buttons for volume control and score updates.
Blazers Lead the Way in Inclusive Innovation
The Trail Blazers were the first NBA franchise to adopt this technology, with other teams such as the Kings, Sixers, and Suns following suit.
“The pilot test of OneCourt is concrete proof of our institution’s commitment to innovation and accessibility,” said Matthew Gardner, director of customer research for the Blazers, a year ago.
“This pilot represents a unique opportunity to reinvent the game-day experience while opening the door for more fans to experience the excitement of live sport.
We hope that this pilot will pave the way for other teams, leagues and sports venues to explore new ways to make events accessible to all types of supporters.”
Beyond Basketball: Expanding Accessibility in Sports
The success of the OneCourt device has spurred interest in adapting the technology for other sports, including baseball, football, and hockey.Kirsten French, a Blazers fan, lauded the device for allowing her to enjoy games alongside friends with minimal commentary needed.
“I can go with one or two friends who barely comment (on what’s happening).
They’re watching the game, and so am I, thanks to the vibrations.
We all enjoy the game, like others around us,” French said.
“It still felt so far away…and now, two years later, it’s here.
It’s crazy.
Usually, things don’t move so fast, especially in the world of blindness.”
What benefits does the OneCourt device offer visually impaired fans compared to traditional methods of experiencing a basketball game?
NBA Teams Embrace Technology to Bring Game to Visually Impaired Fans
PORTLAND, Ore. — The portland Trail Blazers and other NBA teams are pioneering a new way for visually impaired fans to experience the excitement of live basketball games.
As January, some Blazers fans have been using a device that translates real-time game action into tactile feedback.
This innovative technology, developed by the startup OneCourt, uses vibrations on a specialized tablet to indicate the ball’s position.
OneCourt’s Haptic Technology Enhances Fan Experience
The OneCourt device features a rubber surface with raised contours representing a basketball court.
Connected via Wi-Fi to live NBA statistics, the device allows users to follow the ball’s movement in real-time through haptic feedback.
Varying vibration intensities signal the ball’s location, points scored (1, 2, or 3), and an earpiece provides supplementary audio cues for events like rebounds and missed shots.
The device also includes buttons for volume control and score updates.
Blazers Lead the Way in Inclusive Innovation
The Trail Blazers were the first NBA franchise to adopt this technology, with other teams such as the Kings, Sixers, and Suns following suit.
“The pilot test of OneCourt is concrete proof of our institution’s commitment to innovation and accessibility,” said Matthew Gardner, director of customer research for the Blazers, a year ago.
“This pilot represents a unique opportunity to reinvent the game-day experience while opening the door for more fans to experience the excitement of live sport.
We hope that this pilot will pave the way for other teams, leagues and sports venues to explore new ways to make events accessible to all types of supporters.”
Beyond Basketball: Expanding Accessibility in Sports
The success of the OneCourt device has spurred interest in adapting the technology for other sports,including baseball,football,and hockey.Kirsten French, a Blazers fan, lauded the device for allowing her to enjoy games alongside friends with minimal commentary needed.
“I can go with one or two friends who barely comment (on what’s happening).
They’re watching the game, and so am I, thanks to the vibrations.
We all enjoy the game, like others around us,” French said.
“It still felt so far away…and now, two years later, its here.
It’s crazy.
Usually, things don’t move so fast, especially in the world of blindness.”
Q&A: Bringing the Game to Everyone
What exactly is the OneCourt device?
The OneCourt device is a specialized tablet with a rubber surface that represents a basketball court. It uses haptic feedback (vibrations) to translate real-time game action, indicating the ball’s position, points scored, and other key events. It also includes audio cues through an earpiece.
How does the haptic feedback work?
The device connects to live NBA statistics via Wi-Fi. Vibrations on the tablet’s surface vary in intensity to signal the ball’s location on the court. The frequency and type of vibration also indicate points scored (1, 2, or 3 points).
which NBA teams are using this technology?
The Portland Trail Blazers were the first to adopt the OneCourt device. Other teams, including the Sacramento Kings, Philadelphia 76ers, and Phoenix Suns, have also implemented the technology.
Can this technology be used for other sports?
Yes! The success of OneCourt has sparked interest in adapting the technology for sports like baseball, football, and hockey. Imagine feeling the crack of the bat or the impact of a tackle!
Where can I find more details about OneCourt?
you can visit the OneCourt website or follow them on social media to stay updated on their developments and learn more about their mission to improve accessibility in sports. Keep an eye out for information about team partnerships and availability.
How can I help promote accessibility in sports?
Spread awareness! Share this article and other stories about inclusive technologies. Support teams and organizations that prioritize accessibility. Advocate for inclusive design in your community and at sporting venues. Every voice makes a difference!
The OneCourt device is a fantastic example of how technology can enhance the fan experience for everyone. Let’s continue to champion these innovations and make sports truly accessible for all fans.
