NBA invests in Fastbreak.ai for AI scheduling

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has taken a leap into the future of sports scheduling by investing in artificial intelligence (AI) scheduling tech developer Fastbreak.ai.

This move positions the NBA at the forefront of innovation within the sports industry, enhancing the efficiency and precision of its scheduling processes.

NBA Equity has emerged as a seed round investor in Fastbreak.ai, solidifying a partnership that aims to revolutionise how league schedules are crafted. The league plans to integrate Fastbreak.ai’s cutting-edge AI technology into its scheduling operations, marking a significant advancement in managing one of the most complex aspects of professional sports.

This tech infusion will not be limited to the NBA alone. The league has ambitious plans to extend the use of Fastbreak.ai’s AI scheduling technology to other affiliated entities, including the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), the G League, and the NBA2K League. This approach shows the NBA’s commitment to elevating the entire basketball ecosystem through innovative solutions.

Fastbreak.ai has garnered attention and partnerships across various sports properties. The NBA now joins esteemed counterparts like the National Hockey League (NHL), the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and Major League Pickleball in leveraging Fastbreak.ai’s scheduling technology. The company’s proven track record and success in the field make it a sought-after partner for sports organisations seeking efficiency and precision in their scheduling processes.

Score! We’re excited to announce The @NBA and @Fastbreak have agreed to multi-year partnership for the use of https://t.co/HXzlQpLODX‘s scheduling platform. This a big win for the Fastbreak team and the NBA. More news to come. Go Fastbreakhttps://t.co/5azQaHVMvi

— Fastbreak.ai (@Fastbreakai) January 17, 2024

Last year, Fastbreak.ai secured a substantial US$5.2 million in seed financing during a round led by Greycroft. Investors in this funding round included Gordon Hayward, forward for the Charlotte Hornets, and Greg Olsen, a retired National Football League (NFL) player.

“The NBA is excited to collaborate with Fastbreak.ai to integrate state-of-the-art technology solutions into one of sport’s most complex processes – the league schedule,” said Evan Wasch, Executive Vice President of Basketball Strategy & Analytics at the NBA.

“The partnership reflects our belief in the company and our shared commitment to fostering innovation.”

The startup will benefit from the NBA’s financial support and resources, paving the way for further expansion and technological advancements.

Image credit: Gobierno CDMX