EuroLeague has announced a new partnership to deploy Internet of Things (IoT) sensors for the 2017-18 season to create unique video content for TV broadcasters and for social media distribution.
The deal between the EuroLeague and Heed will see sensors placed in all 16 basketball arenas for this coming season, and the IoT technology will collect data in the venues from the audiences watching and also on players and coaches. From there, it will use this information to create video content and performance reports for both those on site and fans at home, through TV, social media and other digital distribution channels.
Heed, formed in 2016, is a joint venture between WME|IMG and IoT solutions and analytics company AGT International. The U.S.-based technology company, first partnered with EuroLeague last May for a similar deal for its Final Four playoff tournament held in Berlin.
Regarding the partnership, EuroLeague Basketball Chief Business Development Officer Roser Queraltó said in a statement, “We’re excited to see this technology deployed across the league, providing us a new way to engage with fans and bring them closer to the action than ever before.” He continued: “This will enable fans far beyond traditional sports storytelling, making them part of the game and providing them with sensor-measured, on-court emotions.”
The EuroLeague comprises 16 teams and was won by Fenerbahçe for the first time last season, as the Turkish team beat Greece’s Olympiacos in the final. The new season begins on Oct. 12 with Fenerbahçe playing Spain’s Unicaja Malaga.