NBA China, Alibaba Cloud partner to develop fan engagement solutions

NBA China has partnered with Alibaba Cloud in a multi-year deal to enhance fan experiences using AI and cloud technology. The collaboration makes Alibaba Cloud the official cloud computing and AI Partner of NBA China.

Through the partnership, NBA China will use Alibaba Cloud’s AI and computing services to power new digital fan engagement initiatives. This includes developing a custom AI model based on Alibaba’s Qwen series. The partnership also extends to major league events such as NBA All-Star Week, NBA Playoffs, and NBA Finals.

Alibaba’s consumer-facing apps, Quark and Tongyi, will also serve as Official Marketing Partners of NBA China. Additionally, Alibaba Cloud will host the NBA’s digital platforms in China, including the NBA App, the league’s official website, and various mini-programs.

A key highlight of the collaboration is the Real-Time 360 Replay Solution, which will debut at The NBA China Games 2025. This AI-powered tool will deliver enhanced replays and visual highlights for fans.

Fans attending NBA House during the China Games can also use Alibaba Cloud’s AI features to create personalized NBA avatars and generate custom commentary clips using their own voice samples.

As part of the multi-year agreement, NBA China will use Alibaba Cloud’s data analytics tools to gain insights that will further strengthen local fan engagement strategies.