Virtual reality is a virtual or simulated three-dimensional environment that is generated by a computer. It is typically experienced through a helmet or headset with a built-in screen, which deliver audio and visual stimuli to the user.
Virtual reality in sports is being widely adopted across the industry for a variety of uses. NFL teams are using virtual reality to help train their quarterbacks through additional mental repetitions. Major League Baseball and the National Football League are using it to help train umpires and referees. MLB teams are also exploring its potential to help batters prepare for pitchers. Athletes are building their brand by creating virtual reality content for their fans. Football teams are able to use eye-tracking data recorded in a virtual reality environment to detect concussions in players. Startups are experimenting with offering full-body virtual reality video game experiences. Pro golfers are providing virtual lessons for fans. NBA players are finding opportunities to enhance their free throw percentage. Teams see the immersive virtual environment as a new and unique fan engagement opportunity. Broadcasters are streaming live games in virtual reality and preparing to one day sell “virtual tickets” to live games. One of the biggest NBA free agency signings in history happened because of a virtual reality “sales pitch“. And the list goes on…
With teams, leagues and brands consistently experimenting with and pushing the limits of virtual reality’s applications in sports, and major tech companies like Facebook, Samsung and Google making virtual reality headsets available to the average consumer, it’s a virtual certainty that virtual reality will continue to have major ramifications on the sports industry.