TNT and Intel Air the NBA Western Conference Finals in VR for First Time

Intel and Turner Sports will air every NBA Western Conference Finals matchup between the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets in virtual reality, powered by Intel True VR, via the NBA on TNT VR App.

The App is available to download for Samsung Gear VR and Google Daydream headsets via the Oculus and Google Play stores. The VR experience takes fans onto the set of “Inside the NBA,“ where they can access live game action, full-game replays, highlights and more. The VR telecasts feature TNT talent, Spero Dedes and Stephanie Ready, delivering customized VR commentary to break down all aspects of the interactive experience.

Virtual reality, volumetric video and analytics will provide more immersive sports experiences, from athlete performance and the fan experience to the business and operational successes of major leagues and sporting events. Intel installed multiple cameras around the arenas to capture footage using stereoscopic pods containing up to 12 4K-resolution cameras each. The feeds are sent to the VR control and production room, where servers and algorithms stitch, encode, and distribute multiple content streams.

Viewers choose how they want to watch: through a produced feed or switch between multiple vantage points of their choice to create a personalized, fully immersive game day experience. Live VR broadcasts started on May 14th with first game played in Houston, as well as the second one played two days later at the same venue.