By Tian DuBelko
Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer shared his ideas on how technology can evolve how we watch sports from our homes.
Speaking at the Recode Code Conference, the NBA owner of the LA Clippers said his team will work with local startup Second Spectrum to create a new TV broadcast overlay with AI-powered animations and data.
“I think there’s an opportunity to change the way people experience sports by using technology,” Ballmer said.
Second Spectrum is one of the global leaders in building machines that understand sports. Basically, they build computers that can track players and the ball at a granular level. The computers then apply artificial intelligence and machine learning to deliver new data to coaches and players or an augmented sport-watching experience to customers.
Ballmer demoed a short demo of the technology at the conference. It will be released in beta for the 2018 NBA season. Second Spectrum offers fans an enhanced viewing experience, with statistics above player’ heads, zones on the court where players have a tendency to shoot from, with Ballmer promising more features. In addition, he said fans will have the ability to filter for and watch specific highlights, depending on who or what type of play they want to watch for.
As @KingJames has dominated the paint this #NBAPlayoffs, @secondspectrum gives us closer look at how!
ECF Game 1: 8:30pm/et @NBAonTNT pic.twitter.com/JlYYgeqhMb
— NBA (@NBA) May 17, 2017
Having served in a variety of roles for Microsoft, Ballmer is no stranger to forward-thinking technology. During his 20-year tenure, the tech giant made great leaps in personal computers and became one of the most profitable companies in the world. And despite retiring in 2014, Ballmer still has a significant investment in the company.
Since retirement, Ballmer is often seen courtside at Clippers games passionately cheering on his team. Outside of being an NBA owner, Ballmer is also the co-founder of his own philanthropy, the Ballmer Group.
