The NBA is testing a smart basketball developed in Europe, equipped with advanced technology. The league has chosen SportsIQ’s sensor system for its NBA Launchpad program, an initiative designed to evaluate technological innovations in the basketball world.
This system, created by SportIQ, a Finnish startup, incorporates a sensor inside the ball’s valve that records data on players’ shots, such as their technique, angle, force, and position. This data is sent to a mobile app, where it is analyzed by artificial intelligence to provide personalized feedback and recommendations to players.
According to SportIQ, their technology has already captured over 20 million shots, and regular users have improved their accuracy by 12%. This progress caught the attention of the NBA, which included SportIQ in its Launchpad program, a six-month tech incubator. During this period, the startup will receive support and resources from the NBA to refine its technology, culminating in a presentation to executives, partners, and investors during the NBA Summer League.
Erik Anderson, CEO of SportIQ, emphasized that this collaboration will allow them to integrate their system into the highest levels of basketball, improving officiating, offering deeper analysis for teams, and enhancing the fan experience. He also stated that this partnership is a unique opportunity for a startup like theirs.
Basketball is at the core of SportIQ, founded by Harri Hohteri, a former professional player and computer scientist. Anderson pointed out that basketball has a gap in analytical solutions, especially at the consumer level, which represents an opportunity to innovate and provide accessible tools for players, coaches, and fans.
Although SportIQ is a European company, it has already penetrated the U.S. market, with thousands of smart basketballs sold each year. Its participation in Launchpad could further boost its growth. This year, SportIQ is the only European company selected for the program, alongside other startups like OneCourt, VReps, Somnee, and Trashie, which address various aspects of basketball and technology.
In addition to focusing on basketball, SportIQ plans to expand into other sports, as its sensor system can be adapted to different disciplines. As Anderson states: “Every ball can be smart.” This innovative approach not only benefits the NBA but also opens new possibilities for the future of sports and technology.
By: Nestor Castillo, ForAllTechNews Directorr
Image credit: rawpixel.com / Markus Spiske / CC0 1.0 / CC0 1.0 Universal