Six Ways AI Has Refined the Sports Industry

It’s unlikely to recount the milestones recorded in the sports industry today without acknowledging the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI). From enhancing athletes’ performances to enabling the fanbase, and coaches, AI has become an integral part of the sports space.

In the sports industry’s modern era, tech has brought some unimaginable practices to life, such as small tracking devices for player health, goal-line technology, and the VAR system, all of which are AI wonders. This article will highlight six ways in which AI has benefited the industry, including its impact on NBA finals odds.

1. Contents hide

   1 Performance tracking and analysis

   2 Injury prevention

   3 Fan engagement

   4 Result forecasts

   5 Athlete scouting and recruitment

   6 Sports broadcasting

   Performance tracking and analysis

AI-powered tracking systems use computer vision to track players and provide in-time data of their performances. By analyzing player movements, speeds, and distances covered during games, coaches and backroom staff can identify areas for improvement. Thereby tailoring their training programs accordingly.

One example of this is the player tracking system used by the National Basketball Association (NBA). The system uses cameras placed around the court to capture the movements of all players and the ball. It generates data on every player’s speed, distance, and acceleration. Coaches then use this info to develop game strategies and optimize their outcomes.

1. Injury prevention

Injuries are a major concern in sports, and AI has emerged as a savior to help limit them. AI analyzes player movement patterns, biomechanics, and previous injury history, to identify predispositions to certain in-game risks. With this information, vulnerable players can have personalized training plans to help prevent injuries.

Most injury detection software uses comprehensive systems that crosslink multifactorial interplays based on different amassed data. A notable example is the injury prevention program developed by Kitman Labs. Several professional sports teams have used this system, including the Golden State Warriors and the Dallas Cowboys.

1. Fan engagement

AI has also been used to enhance the fan experience in the sports industry. With the help of AI-powered chatbots, sports teams, and leagues can interact with fans, providing definitive information and support. This bolsters the participation of this set of people in the ongoings of their supported teams.

For example, the National Football League (NFL) has developed an AI-powered chatbot that provides fans with real-time updates on games, scores, and player statistics. The chatbot can also answer questions and provide personalized recommendations based on a supporter’s preferences.

1. Result forecasts

AI-powered prediction models use machine learning computations to decipher historical data and predict future outcomes. By analyzing data on player and team performance, weather conditions, and other factors, these prototypes can provide accurate predictions of game results.

Especially in sports betting, AI-based predictions can be useful to place informative bets. As humans, it’s more challenging to process multiple pieces of information strategically. This is where AI comes in, helping to tackle the issue of blind or careless gambling.

1. Athlete scouting and recruitment

AI has also become a valuable tool in athlete scouting and recruitment. By evaluating large amounts of data on player performance, AI algorithms can identify potential talents. Often, traditional scouting methods may have overlooked these prospects. Whereas, they likely will make great inclusions in an existing squad.

One example of this is the AI-powered scouting system, Eyeball. It works via a high-resolution camera fixed high above a pitch, usually at 180 degrees to create an angle for the in-use AI software to work. It tracks individual players, creates clips of their involvement on the pitch, and records their stats. Football teams, like AC Milan, Benfica, and Lille have used the model for several youngsters’ recruitment.

1. Sports broadcasting

In addition, AI has revamped the way sports are publicized to supporters around the world. AI-powered broadcasting systems can automatically identify key moments in games, such as goals or touchdowns, providing real-time highlights and replays. A great example of this is the broadcasting system used by the English Premier League.

On a final note, Artificial Intelligence has grown to become a fundamental requirement in the sports industry, benefiting players, coaches, fans, and journalists all the same. With the continued development of machine learning, we can look forward to more jaw-dropping manifestations of AI in the sports industry in the coming years.