Basketball has always been a game of versatility, played on everything from blacktops to polished hardwood. But the 2026 Big 12 Tournament is introducing a new twist: a glass court. While LED courts have been around since 2008, this is the first time many fans are witnessing the spectacle in person at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City.
The decision to use this innovative surface has sparked a range of reactions. Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark has championed the court as a symbol of progress, but not everyone is convinced. After the first day of men's play, the reviews were less than stellar.
Kansas State's Taj Manning didn't hold back after his team's loss. "It's pretty bad, to be honest," he shared.
"It's slippery, and the lights caused Khamari McGriff to get a migraine. It's just an eyesore with all the flashing lights.
We just want the normal hardwood."
Athletes thrive on routine, and this new court has certainly disrupted that. Developed by ASB GlassFloor, the surface was also criticized for its slickness.
Arizona State guard Allen Mukeba noted, “The traction is good, but when you push hard, you slip. It seems like the shoes and the court don’t match well.”
BYU's Keba Kaita had a tumble during the game but remained diplomatic afterward. “It’s nice and looks cool,” he said. “But I don't know how I feel about playing on it.”
As the tournament continues, the big question is whether this flashy court will enhance or hinder the gameplay. While it didn't seem to affect the women’s games much, the men's side will provide another test. The court offers exciting possibilities for in-game graphics and fan engagement, but its impact on play remains to be seen.