Visually impaired NBA fans experience the game on a new level with haptic device
The NBA has always been a source of excitement and entertainment for fans all over the world. But for Brian Vu, a visually impaired fan from Portland, Oregon, the experience of attending a game was completely transformed thanks to a groundbreaking device developed by OneCourt.
Vu, a die-hard Trail Blazers supporter, had never truly felt involved in a game until he tried out the haptic device at a recent match against the Memphis Grizzlies. This innovative technology allowed him to follow the action in real-time through vibrations felt on his fingers, providing him with updates on scores, turnovers, and plays.
The brain behind this game-changing device is Jerred Mace, the founder of OneCourt. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and a desire to make sports more inclusive, Mace created a laptop-sized device that mimics the movement on a basketball court through tactile feedback.
With the support of the NBA and the Trail Blazers, OneCourt’s device has been introduced to fans at select games, including those in Portland, Sacramento, and Phoenix. By leveraging the optical tracking technology present in NBA arenas, visually impaired fans like Vu can now enjoy the game with a new level of independence and engagement.
Vu’s friend, James Kim, who often served as his eyes and ears during games, witnessed the dramatic shift in Vu’s fan experience. No longer reliant on Kim for play-by-play updates, Vu was fully immersed in the game, reacting to steals, dunks, and defensive plays with the same enthusiasm as any other fan in the arena.
The impact of OneCourt’s device goes beyond individual users. It opens up a world of possibilities for fans with disabilities, expanding the circle of who can attend games and share the experience with friends and family. As more NBA teams express interest in adopting this technology, the potential for creating a more inclusive fan base continues to grow.
While Vu found the device easy to use, he offered valuable feedback for future improvements, such as incorporating player-specific audio cues. Despite these suggestions, Vu’s enthusiasm for attending more games has skyrocketed, thanks to the newfound sense of inclusion and engagement provided by OneCourt’s device.
In a league known for its innovation and dedication to fan experience, the partnership between the NBA and OneCourt stands out as a shining example of how technology can enhance accessibility and enjoyment for all fans. With the continued support and adoption of devices like OneCourt’s, the future of sports entertainment looks brighter and more inclusive than ever before.
