The United States National Basketball Association (NBA) and its affiliate – the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), have partnered with crypto firm Dapper Labs to launch a new crypto collectibles game.
According to NBPA’s official publication, the game called NBA Top Shot will be a roster competitive game based on crypto collectibles. Fans will have opportunity to purchase, trade, and own exclusive digital NBA collectibles on the blockchain.
The gaming platform will allow basketball fans to gather live footage of great moments in NBA matches that can be used for the game or simply trade the videos as collectible on a blockchain.
CEO of Dapper Labs, creators of CryptoKitties and NBA Top Shot – Roham Gharegozlou explains:
The NBA and its players are among the greatest heavyweights in global culture…Through NBA Top Shot, basketball fans can engage with their favourite players, teams, and each other in entirely new ways. We use the latest in blockchain technology to create assets and experiences that are guaranteed limited edition and authentic, not to mention portable and permanent in a way nothing digital has ever been before.
Also speaking on the partnership, NBPA Commercial Executive – Josh Goodstadt said:
We believe blockchain technology creates a truly unique product that fans can collect, manage and engage within a fun environment…The Dapper’s product is an entirely new way for fans to connect with their favourite athletes.
NBA Top Shot game is set to launch in early 2020. Although its primary focus is creating an authentic fun and accessible fan engagement on blockchain, the firm is currently exploring ways to have players benefit from the experience.
See more via: nbatopshot.com
Sports and the crypto industry seem to be striking a great balance, as more partnerships and utility of blockcahin technology and crypto spread in the sports.
Over the past few weeks, Basketball has become the latest beneficiary of crypto adoption. Last week NBA team – Sacramento Kings announced partnership with crypto mining hardware company – MiningStore to install Ethereum mining machines at the clubs indoor arena; with proceeds from the mining operations to be donated to its charity program.
Also, the Cleveland Cavaliers (The Cavs) have adopted crypto firm United Coin as its official partner. The partnerships will offer UnitedCoin advertising benefits through the club’s coverage while the team receives cryptocurrency and fintech support from the firm.
What are your thoughts on the fusion of crypto and sports? Share in the comments.
