The Portland Trail Blazers have once again proven themselves to be trailblazers—this time off the court. The team has become the first in the NBA to offer a revolutionary service for visually impaired fans, using cutting-edge technology to make the game more accessible and inclusive. The initiative, which debuted this season at the Moda Center, has been met with widespread praise for its innovation and impact.
The service revolves around a device called OneCourt, developed by a Seattle-based startup. The device, roughly the size of a laptop, features a tactile display with a raised outline of a basketball court. Using real-time data from the NBA’s advanced tracking systems, the device translates ball and player movements into vibrations that users can feel with their hands. For example, when a player dribbles or passes the ball, the vibrations mimic the motion, allowing users to follow the action as it unfolds.
In addition to the haptic feedback, the device includes audio narration to provide context, such as the score, fouls, and other key moments. This dual-sensory approach ensures that visually impaired fans can fully engage with the game, experiencing the excitement and drama just like any other fan.
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The introduction of OneCourt devices is part of the Trail Blazers’ broader commitment to inclusivity. Fans can reserve the devices for free through the team’s Guest Services department or pick them up on game day at designated booths inside the arena. The service has already made a significant impact, with fans praising the technology for its ability to bring the game to life in a way that was previously unimaginable.
One such fan, 11-year-old Hank Vogel, who has a degenerative eye condition, described the experience as transformative.
“It’s like I can feel the game happening,” he said , per The Athletic. “I’ve never been able to follow basketball like this before.”
The Trail Blazers’ initiative has set a new standard for accessibility in professional sports. By leveraging technology to create a more inclusive environment, the team has demonstrated that sports truly can be for everyone. The hope is that other NBA teams—and sports organizations worldwide—will follow Portland’s lead, adopting similar technologies to ensure that all fans can enjoy the thrill of live sports.
