AI Replay System Revolutionizes Sports Viewing, Debuts with Brooklyn Nets

The Brooklyn Nets have introduced a groundbreaking AI-enhanced replay system at the Barclays Center, offering fans a novel, near-perfect 3D recreation of on-court action. This technology, which debuted during the team's 2026-27 season opener, aims to transform the fan experience by providing immersive perspectives of game highlights.

The system utilizes 64 cameras positioned around the arena, capturing the game from various angles. This footage is then processed by an AI model developed by Alibaba, which stitches the data together to create the 3D replays. The AI-generated highlights, including dunks, blocks, and steals, were broadcast on the jumbotron and shared across the Nets' social media channels.

Keia Cole, Chief Digital Officer of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment, stated that the system is designed to engage and impress new generations of Nets fans. The technology, a collaboration between Alibaba and the Nets, processes game action into replays within 15 to 20 seconds. Alibaba Group, co-founded by Nets owner Joe Tsai, has previously showcased similar technology at the Milan-Cortina Olympics.

Beyond the arena's displays, a Toronto-based startup named Peripheral is working to bring similar immersive viewing experiences to all screens. Founded in 2024 by Kelvin Cui and Mustafa Khan, Peripheral joined the NBA's incubator program, Launchpad. Their technology was showcased at the 2026 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, attracting attention and investment from the NBA.

Peripheral's system uses approximately 18 cameras to capture volumetric and biomechanical data of player movements. This allows for detailed replays from virtually any viewpoint, including simulating player perspectives. Cui, who previously worked in autonomous vehicles at Tesla, sees broader applications for the technology, such as aiding coaches in strategy, preventing player injuries by analyzing physical tendencies, and assisting with officiating.

Peripheral is currently collaborating with multiple NBA teams on permanent installations, with the goal of making these advanced viewing options available this season. The company also aims to eventually provide controllers to fans, enabling an interactive, video-game-like experience for watching their favorite teams, thereby engaging younger audiences accustomed to such digital interactions.