FIBA and Genius Sports Usher in a New Era of Basketball with AI Technology
In a landmark development for international basketball, FIBA, the world governing body of the sport, has announced an expansion of its partnership with Genius Sports Limited.
This collaboration, stretching from 2025 to 2035, is set to revolutionize the data and video landscape of the game through advanced computer vision technology and AI capabilities.
Revolutionizing Basketball with AI
The new technology provided by Genius Sports is poised to transform the entire data and video ecosystem in international basketball. By automating and synchronizing the collection of live game statistics and video production, this initiative promises to deliver a unified, connected solution that enhances the sport’s dynamics.
The optical system developed by Genius Sports, trained to interpret live game plays and predict outcomes in real time, will convert raw data and video into valuable, actionable insights.
For the first time, Leagues and National Federations worldwide will have access to an AI-powered automated player tracking system. This state-of-the-art technology will offer a suite of advanced coaching tools, analytics, automated officiating, and broadcast augmentation tools.
These innovations are expected to elevate the sport’s strategic and technical aspects, enabling a more immersive and engaging experience for players, coaches, and fans alike.
A History of Collaboration and Innovation
Since 2004, the partnership between Genius Sports and FIBA has played a pivotal role in digital transformation in basketball, providing over 200 Leagues and National Federations with FIBA LiveStats and FIBA Organizer.
These tools have been instrumental in collecting official play-by-play statistics, with FIBA LiveStats capturing data from over a million basketball games.
Under the terms of the new agreement, Genius Sports will serve as FIBA’s Official Data & Video Capture and Production Partner, as well as the Official Innovation & Technology Services Partner. This expanded role reinforces the long-standing relationship between the two organizations and underscores their commitment to advancing the sport of basketball.
Our Comment on the Article
The extended partnership between FIBA and Genius Sports marks a significant milestone in the evolution of basketball.
As noted by FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis, this collaboration is not just about technological advancement but also about empowering National Federations and Leagues to enhance their reach, revenue, and efficiency.
The adoption of AI-driven systems by Genius Sports, as highlighted by CEO Mark Locke, signifies a pivotal shift in how basketball interacts with data and technology. This decade-long commitment promises to bring a new level of sophistication and engagement to the sport, potentially setting a benchmark for other sports to follow.
