New details have emerged regarding NBA Experience, a basketball-themed destination set to open at Walt Disney World Resort in summer 2019. The attraction is being developed by Walt Disney Imagineering in collaboration with the NBA, and will utilize technology to immerse guests in the world of professional basketball.
Visitors will be able to participate in shooting and passing drills mimicking the NBA Combine, complete with a scouting report of their performance. They can also test their dribbling skills with an interactive trainer and perform slam dunks on adjustable baskets—all captured on camera. There will be a team locker room that showcases up-to-date statistics and visuals of top NBA and WNBA players.
“Developed with the NBA, and inspired by the league’s 29 arenas around the country, NBA Experience will highlight the heart-pounding action and excitement of the NBA world,” said Stan Dodd, Executive Producer, Walt Disney Imagineering, in a press release. “From training simulations and clock-racing competitions to fan-favorite NBA moments—we’re bringing new experiences and thrilling games to life to make fans truly feel like a star player.”
There will also be two 180-degree cinematic presentations that allow customers to experience an in-arena pre-game simulator and hear original stories about the history of the leagues. Visitors can enter a photo booth that recreates the atmosphere of the NBA Draft. There will additionally be NBA and WNBA trivia contests, as well as interactive basketball games spanning from classic arcade-style Pop-A-Shot to modern video games.
SportTechie Takeaway
The NBA has made major strides within virtual reality and esports within the past year, and the NBA Experience at Disney Springs presents an opportunity for the league to let visitors enjoy these innovations all in one location. NBA commissioner Adam Silver recently described how he envisioned augmented and virtual reality enhancing the fan experience, and perhaps a feature relating to the NBA 2K League could also be integrated into the theme park attraction.