Technology and innovation make basketball more inclusive

Trento and Wolves have made their games more accessible to fans

Basketball not only fosters physical and mental well-being but also serves as a bridge for relationships. Dolomiti Energia Trento and Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius's latest initiative exemplifies this mission, creating a memorable and groundbreaking experience for people with disabilities, particularly those who are blind or visually impaired.

Wolves's game versus Dreamland Gran Canaria was special for a large group of children and young people with hearing disabilities. During the game, a unique touch was added as the arena cube displayed a live interpreter translating the TV commentators’ play-by-play into sign language, making the game more accessible for the fans in the crowd. The initiative aims to spark interest in basketball among the deaf community, promote an active lifestyle, and enhance social inclusion through the sport. According to Titas Servutas, Wolves's One Team program manager, the project’s societal impact is undeniable: “Sometimes, we focus too much on the general population and overlook those whom life has treated unfairly. This program is specifically designed to help these individuals integrate into basketball, foster the growth of their community, and view the game from a fresh perspective."

More recently, on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, during the BKT EuroCup game between Trento and Wolves, Trento set the stage for an extraordinary event. Among the spectators, approximately 15 were blind or visually impaired fans who enjoyed the game in a way that had never been experienced before at Il T Quotidiano Arena. With the help of a dedicated radio commentary and the electrifying energy of the arena, these fans were fully immersed in the action of the game. For many of the visually impaired attendees, the event marked their first-ever live basketball game. This sentiment underscores the unique impact of the initiative, which proved that basketball is a sport for everyone, regardless of physical or sensory abilities.

The success of this initiative has paved the way for its continuation. With the support of the Associazione Marcotti Osvaldo, Trento plans to replicate this inclusive experience in the upcoming games. The organization’s dedication to inclusion doesn’t stop here. "Through collaborations within our community and beyond, we strive to create a society that is more attentive on the field, in the arena, and in everyday life,“ stated Massimo Komatz, director of the Fondazione Aquila for Sport Trentino.

These initiatives highlight the incredible potential of technology in enhancing accessibility and promoting inclusion in sports. By combining innovative tools, Trento and Wolves have set a benchmark for how sports can bring people together regardless of their physical or sensory abilities. Both teams' efforts demonstrate that basketball is more than just a game – it’s a vehicle for inclusion, empowerment, and connection.