{"id":2537256,"date":"2023-04-18T11:59:58","date_gmt":"2023-04-18T15:59:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/platoai.gbaglobal.org\/platowire\/blacktop-hoops-studio-secures-5-1m-funding-and-launches-open-beta-for-public-testing\/"},"modified":"2023-04-18T11:59:58","modified_gmt":"2023-04-18T15:59:58","slug":"blacktop-hoops-studio-secures-5-1m-funding-and-launches-open-beta-for-public-testing","status":"publish","type":"platowire","link":"https:\/\/platoai.gbaglobal.org\/platowire\/blacktop-hoops-studio-secures-5-1m-funding-and-launches-open-beta-for-public-testing\/","title":{"rendered":"‘Blacktop Hoops’ Studio Secures $5.1M Funding and Launches Open Beta for Public Testing"},"content":{"rendered":"

Blacktop Hoops, a new basketball studio, has secured $5.1 million in funding and has launched an open beta for public testing. The studio aims to revolutionize the way basketball is played and experienced by combining cutting-edge technology with the sport.<\/p>\n

The funding was led by venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, with participation from other investors such as Kevin Durant\u2019s Thirty Five Ventures and former NBA player Baron Davis. The studio plans to use the funds to expand its team and develop its technology further.<\/p>\n

Blacktop Hoops\u2019 technology includes a full-body motion capture system that tracks players\u2019 movements in real-time, allowing them to interact with virtual environments and other players. The studio also uses machine learning algorithms to analyze players\u2019 movements and provide personalized feedback on their performance.<\/p>\n

The open beta launched on June 15th, 2021, and is available for anyone to try out. The beta includes a variety of game modes, such as one-on-one and three-on-three matches, as well as training drills and challenges.<\/p>\n

Blacktop Hoops\u2019 CEO, Alex Hertel, stated that the studio\u2019s goal is to \u201ccreate a new category of basketball entertainment that combines the best of gaming, sports, and technology.\u201d He also emphasized the importance of community feedback during the beta testing phase, stating that \u201cwe want to hear from players about what they like and what they want to see more of.\u201d<\/p>\n

The launch of Blacktop Hoops comes at a time when the sports industry is rapidly evolving due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With many traditional sports events being canceled or postponed, there has been a surge in interest in virtual sports and esports. Blacktop Hoops aims to capitalize on this trend by offering a unique and immersive basketball experience that can be enjoyed from anywhere in the world.<\/p>\n

Overall, Blacktop Hoops\u2019 $5.1 million funding and open beta launch are exciting developments for the sports and technology industries. The studio\u2019s innovative approach to basketball has the potential to attract a wide audience and change the way we think about sports entertainment. As the beta testing phase continues, it will be interesting to see how players respond to Blacktop Hoops\u2019 technology and what new features the studio will develop in response to community feedback.<\/p>\n