Inspired Entertainment has secured the rights to develop virtual sports games based on the National Basketball Association (NBA).
Under the deal, Inspired will create virtual games centred on archived footage from the NBA. Fans will have the ability to place a range of wagers on these games.
Bet types will include wagering options as a standard sportsbook such as money line bets and over/under total score.
The games will feature all 30 NBA teams and include coverage of NBA All-Star, NBA Playoffs and NBA Finals.
“Virtual sports gaming continues to grow in popularity across the globe,” NBA associate vice-president of international gaming and data ventures, Kuljeet Sindhar, said. “We’re excited to embark on this unique collaboration with Inspired to engage our fans around virtual sports with real-game action.
“Inspired is a leader in this space and will utilise immersive NBA game footage to deliver an authentic NBA experience to reach our fans in new and unique ways and continue to grow our fanbase around the world.”
Inspired’s president and CEO, Brooks Pierce, added: “We are thrilled to offer basketball fans worldwide the one-of-a-kind experience of a Virtual Sports NBA game. Our use of archived NBA footage will produce a truly distinct virtual sports offering. This will be complete with fresh gaming experiences providing a unique way for fans to stay connected with the game.
“Our partnership with the NBA allows us to provide an incredible offering. It will elevate our customers’ brands and expand their reach to millions of basketball enthusiasts worldwide.”
Growing virtual sports offering at Inspired
Inspired has similar virtual sports deals in place with a number of sports organisations and operators. Partners include the National Football League, with Inspired offering virtual sports games for customers to wager on.
The provider in May also extended a virtual sports agreement with Paddy Power. This allows Inspired to continue providing Paddy Power’s retail venues across the UK and Ireland with its products.
Inspired has extended the agreement with Paddy Power several times.