When James Naismith first introduced basketball with simple peach baskets, he likely never imagined a court that could change designs with the push of a button. Yet here we are, witnessing the Big 12 Tournament unfold on a cutting-edge LED glass court that feels like something out of science fiction.
While flying cars remain a fantasy, this high-tech court is very much a reality, having made its debut at the Big 12 women's tournament earlier this month. The Iowa State women's team experienced it firsthand, but their run was cut short by Arizona State. Junior star Addy Brown didn't hold back her thoughts, tweeting about the court's slippery nature.
The Iowa State men's team got their turn with a brief practice session before diving into game action. Despite initial concerns about grip, they dominated Arizona State 91-42. Joshua Jefferson, after a shaky start in his Ja Morant 3s, switched to Kobe VIs at halftime and found his footing, finishing with an impressive 20-point, 12-rebound performance.
Teammate Tamin Lipsey, sporting Nike Sabrinas, didn't notice much difference, though he acknowledged that some players struggled with grip. The flashy court animations and lights added another layer of complexity, with freshman Killyan Toure mentioning how the changing lights were a bit distracting due to his vision issues.
The technology behind this court, courtesy of ASB GlassFloor, has been around since 2008, first used in squash before making its way to basketball. It gained traction in Europe and made a splash in the U.S. during the 2024 NBA All-Star weekend. Now, it's center stage at the Big 12 Tournament.
Not everyone is thrilled. Some Kansas State players, including Khamari McGriff, voiced their discomfort, with McGriff even experiencing a migraine. Yet, Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark is optimistic, emphasizing the positive feedback, particularly from referees who appreciated the court's shock absorption.
The players, however, face a different set of challenges. Freshman guard Jamarion Batemon sees potential if grip issues can be resolved, finding the court fun and visually appealing. But for others like Jefferson, the traditional hardwood can't return soon enough.
As the tournament progresses, the court continues to be a topic of conversation. Whether it becomes a staple or a passing novelty remains to be seen, but one thing's for sure: it's an exciting time for basketball innovation.