Life offers so much more than just visual experiences: a passionate Denver Nuggets supporter discovers the thrill of basketball through new tactile technology.
In a groundbreaking move for accessibility and fan engagement, the Denver Nuggets have unveiled a tactile broadcast system at Ball Arena that allows blind and visually impaired fans to immerse themselves in live basketball games via vibrations. This innovative initiative is set to enrich the experience for supporters during the 2025-26 NBA season.
In collaboration with Ticketmaster and OneCourt, the Nuggets are providing handheld devices designed to translate the game’s action into tangible sensations, enabling fans to physically feel the gameplay as it unfolds. These devices will be offered at no cost during every home game, fostering an inclusive environment for all.
Julie Deden, who has been a devoted Nuggets fan her entire life and serves as the director of the Colorado Center for the Blind, was among the pioneers to test this exciting technology. For her, this development has opened up a fresh avenue to connect with a sport she holds dear. "Having lived in Colorado my whole life, I’ve always supported the Nuggets," Deden shared. "It’s just natural to be a fan here."
Traditionally, she would listen to the games on the radio, but the introduction of this new technology has piqued her enthusiasm. "The ability to use my fingertips to feel the dynamics of the court is incredibly thrilling," she expressed. "It promises to replicate the experience for those who can see the action happening."
The OneCourt device employs cutting-edge haptic technology that converts the ball's movements and the overall gameplay into vibrations, allowing users to sense the position of the ball and major plays in real-time as they transpire on the court. As the game progresses, fans can follow the ball's trajectory and key events through this tactile feedback.
Deden envisions using this opportunity to engage more members from her community with Denver basketball. "I was genuinely eager to attend, and I won’t lie about that," she said. "However, the main goal is to share this experience with others and ignite their excitement about the game."
She underscored the essential nature of accessibility: "Losing your vision doesn’t mean your life is over. There's a vast world beyond just seeing things."
Both Julie and her husband, Dan, noted that while adapting to the technology required some time, by the end of the first quarter, they successfully followed the game’s action from one end of the court to the other.
"I view this OneCourt device as a means to actively engage in watching a game," Deden concluded. "You don’t need to rely on sight to feel the energy of the moment."
But here's where it gets controversial: Shouldn't all sporting events prioritize inclusivity like this? What do you think about the role of technology in making sports accessible? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments!
