hoodline
Blind and low-vision fans attending Phoenix Suns games can now experience the action through a raised tactile display called OneCourt, which translates live basketball data into physical vibrations that track the ball's movement and highlight key plays in real time. The device is available at no cost at Mortgage Matchup Center for every Suns home game, thanks to a partnership between OneCourt, Ticketmaster, and the Phoenix Suns/Phoenix Mercury Foundation.
This marks the Suns' second season using the technology, having first teamed up with OneCourt and Ticketmaster in 2025. The system pulls from the NBA's real-time tracking data, which all arenas have used since the 2023-24 season to capture player and ball movement. Optional audio commentary accompanies the vibrations, providing automated play descriptions for users.
How It Works and How to Get One
The number of devices available has varied by source. A March 2025 report indicated 10 haptic devices would be offered, while OneCourt's current Phoenix Suns page states that five devices are available starting in October at no additional cost. It remains unclear whether the newer figure replaces the earlier one or reflects a different season or venue count. Fans can reserve a device through Guest Services or pick one up on game day on a first-come, first-served basis, leaving a form of identification or a credit card as collateral.
OneCourt developed the technology with direct input from blind and low-vision individuals throughout development, testing, and rollout. The company connects to the NBA's real-time game data, a capability enabled by the league's optical tracking system installed in all arenas. While rollouts are still in early stages, some accessibility experts caution that such devices risk becoming highly publicized but ultimately disappointing if not properly sustained.
Growing Adoption Across Sports
The Portland Trail Blazers became the first NBA team to offer OneCourt in January, following three pilot trials the previous spring. The Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns soon followed. In Denver, blind and low-vision Nuggets fans use five free devices at Ball Arena through Guest Services on a first-come, first-served basis. The Atlanta Hawks also provide five devices at every home game at State Farm Arena. The technology has expanded to other sports as well: the Arizona Diamondbacks became the first MLB team to offer a tactile broadcast for blind and visually impaired fans, and OneCourt's display can be adapted to different sports by changing the interface layered on top of the core system.
The reach extends beyond arenas. The American Council of the Blind partnered with OneCourt this year to bring tactile broadcasts to fans at home, using official NFL, NBA, and MLB live data. For now, the most direct way for Valley fans to try the technology is to visit Guest Services at Mortgage Matchup Center on game night.
Originally reported by hoodline.