NBA announces new dual-Skycam broadcast plans
For the first time, an NBA game will utilize two "SkyCams" during the April 11th meeting
between the Seattle Supersonics and the San Antonio Spurs (lot of Ss there). Instead of using two center court cameras
like most NBA games, they will use the suspended high definition skycams to give the impression of sitting about 10
rows up from the floor.Two robotic high definition cameras above each backboard plus one at center court on the scorers table will give a unique "you are there" perspective for this game. For the audio, it will be in 5.1 surround, with the focus given to on court and arena sounds, much like the recent "silent game" in Orlando. Rick Kamla will host the game, checking in from various spots around the arena as well.
This is great, I really feel like the NBA "gets" high definition and are looking to build around it for better quality broadcasts. The only real complaint I've had so far is that the camera angles don't seem to take advantage of HD's aspect ratio and detail enough, and I hope that these changes will enhance the experience. All we need now is for ESPN, ABC and TNT to take the hint, shut up blabbering on-air personalities and give us just basketball, raw and uncut.
Filed under: OTA
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
gd @ Apr 6th 2006 7:53PM
At the very least, it would be nice if they would give us the choice of the "you are there" sounds vs. the blabbering commentary. The yakking skulls could be relegated to the SAP channel keeping the "live" sounds in glorious 5.1.
And please do the same for baseball. I was so excited to watch a game, any game in HD, but the Fox announcers drove me from it. I don't care where the players went to have dinner the night before, really I don't. I want to hear the game. Period.
Terrence @ Apr 7th 2006 3:35PM
Why'd they pick such a boring game to do? Ah well, I guess its better than nothing. Baseball in HD was beautiful too and I NEVER watch baseball.
Captain Obvious @ Apr 7th 2006 7:02PM
So I have DirecTV. Where is the NBA-TV high def channel? do I need to subscribe to anything NBA specific or will the regular high-def get me this?
Adam @ Apr 7th 2006 8:41PM
OK, the whole "silent game" idea sucks. Remember when that bombed with the NFL? As far as the cameras, I'm going to have to see it in action to really make a judgement.
Richard Lawler @ Apr 7th 2006 9:13PM
I've gotta disagree adam, this isn't the nfl and there isn't a half minute break between every play. It makes a big difference.
Martin @ Apr 12th 2006 3:54PM
The game was great, not boring at all (Must be a faker fan the one who said it)
Great to see The World Champ Spurs
KJ @ Apr 12th 2006 11:20PM
This game was awesome, it was so nice to not hear obnoxious play by play commentators trying hard to be clever. I simply don't need these guys to comment on the action for me; I'm perfectly capable of analyzing the game myself. It was so sweet to also watch the game from closer angles. I hope this catches on.