Last Friday, the NBA announced that the Indiana Pacers earned the 2024 NBA Changemaker of the Year Award for their partnership with sports tech startup Spokenote.
The partnership, announced in January, made the Pacers the first major professional sports franchise in the United States to debut a QR-code-like patch on their jerseys.
This cutting-edge integration of Spokenote’s proprietary technology with the Pacers’ iconic brand has created unprecedented opportunities for fans to connect with their team and preserve cherished memories.
The NBA Changemaker of the Year Award, chosen by NBA league executives and representatives from all 30 teams, recognizes the most innovative new league partnership with an emphasis on groundbreaking approaches in emerging categories.
“We work hard to create unforgettable experiences and engage with our fans in meaningful ways, and Spokenote’s unique technology offered us a fresh opportunity to do exactly that,” said Pacers Sports & Entertainment President and Chief Commercial Officer, Todd Taylor. “Earning the 2024 NBA Changemaker of the Year Award for this partnership is a great validation of our fan-centric approach, and we’re proud to share it with one of the state’s most visionary tech companies.”
“The Changemaker of the Year Award is a powerful affirmation of Spokenote’s innovative spirit and forward-thinking approach,” said John Wechsler, CEO of Spokenote. “Our groundbreaking partnership with the Pacers has not only catapulted our brand onto the global stage but has also pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in fan engagement. This achievement underscores our commitment to leveraging technology to connect people in meaningful ways.”
Key highlights of the partnership include:
- The introduction of the world’s first scannable code worn by a professional sports team revolutionized fan engagement by providing exclusive access to never-before-seen Pacers content.
- Innovative in-game promotions, including a much-talked-about souvenir ticket giveaway during the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
- Successful integration during NBA All-Star 2024, contributing to the highest-attended NBA All-Star event in 14 years.
- Creation of new products, including an innovative drink coaster program with Spokenote codes used to link fans in local bars and restaurants to their favorite teams.
The partnership exemplifies the potential for local tech startups to make a significant impact on a global scale. By leveraging Spokenote’s unique technology platform, the collaboration has not only enhanced the fan experience but also contributed to the creation of entirely new product offerings across various industries where connecting physical items with digital experiences can add tremendous value.
