3D Printing

Katie Cracchiolo

The Sacramento Kings continue to advance their efforts to enhance the fan experience through the use of technology, as the team is now experimenting with 3D printing.

The organization has teamed up with Sacramento’s Hacker Lab to apply the new tech in a variety of ways, beginning as early as this season. 

The integration of 3D printing further authenticates the commitment to Kings Chairman and Majority Owner Vivek Ranadivé’s NBA 3.0 philosophy. 

“Everyone embraces technology around the Kings organization, so if anyone comes to me and says, ‘Lets do this,’ we can figure out ways to make it happen,” says Kings Senior Vice President of Strategy, Innovation and Technology Ryan Montoya.

During the team’s “Technology Night” game in April, Sacramento Hacker Lab held 3D printing demonstrations on the concourse, featuring 3D versions of the Kings primary logo and miniature replicas of Slamson.

“Fans appreciated the opportunity to engage with a new type of technology, one that will surely transform many industries, including the NBA,” added Montoya.

Rendering of 3D Printed Miniature Replica of new ESC

The printers create complex objects by layering materials, such as plastic or metal, based on a three-dimensional model that is loaded into a computer. 

In terms of practical use, the Sports Business Daily’s Adam Stern recently highlighted the production of bobbleheads as a possibility, stating that 3D printing will create a more realistic token for fans to take home.

Montoya provided additional perspective, citing the example of a broken chair.

“Should a chair arm break off, the team could scan it and print a new one instead of waiting several weeks for a replacement to arrive,” he said.

For additional insight on the use of 3D printing by the Kings and more, check out the complete Sports Business Journal article.

3D Printing

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