David Stern shares insight on basketball technology, sports betting, and Nelson Mandela at SeventySix Capital Sports Innovation Conference

Former NBA Commissioner wowed sold out crowd in Philadelphia on November 6, 2019

With over 30 distinguished speakers discussing the future of sports technology, esports, and sports betting, sold-out attendance, and $10,000 in prizes awarded to top entrepreneurs, the SeventySix Capital Sports Innovation Conference at Citizens Bank Park was a success by any measure.

However, it was the closing keynote speaker, former NBA Commissioner David Stern, who stole the show with his wit, humor and keen insight.

Stern’s keynote interview with SeventySix Capital Partner Wayne Kimmel was full of emotion. His energy and presence wrapped up the day’s recurring themes of the speakers before him, which included Ryan Howard, Brian Westbrook, Kenny Gersh, Dr. Laila Mintas, Ken Shropshire, Sara Slane, Ralph Sampson, Jeff Moorad, and Matthew Berry, among many others.

Some of the highlights of Stern’s interview included his thoughts on:

BASKETBALL TECHNOLOGY

Stern’s knowledge of impactful technology is just as apparent as his knowledge of basketball. He wasn’t shy about sharing his knowledge on sub-second latency as it relates to in-game betting. After all, Stern is an investor in ShotTracker, a real-time sensor-based statistical and performance analytics company.

“Sub-second latency is perfect for the world that we’re going to have in gaming. It’s a great product, and I think it’s unique in the sports field,” Stern said.

Stern took another few seconds to display his humor and relationship with ShotTracker’s Co-Founder, Davyeon Ross.

“I do believe in [ShotTracker], but I would invest just for the right to bust Davyeon’s chops.”

U.S. SPORTS BETTING

Stern also shared his thoughts on the opportunities for technological impact on sports betting and leagues. He was quick to explain that a handful of aspects are going to make sports leagues more valuable and that developing technologies will make sports betting more engaging.

Stern shared one consideration: Those who are already watching games are going to watch them longer because, if they’re bettors, they are going to be more invested in the action throughout the game.

GLOBAL ICONS

It wasn’t just his industry knowledge that captured the audience. Stern was eager to share his favorite moment during his time as NBA Commissioner.

His memory welcomed us to South Africa in 1993. It was here that Stern received the opportunity of a lifetime.

Just years after being released from Robben Island and before becoming president, Nelson Mandela asked to visit with Stern before dinner. Of their 45 minute conversation, one moment remains forever ingrained in Stern’s mind.

Stern recalled a moment where Mandela said, “I do believe sports keep kids out of trouble and bring people together.”

About SeventySix Capital

SeventySix Capital is a sports tech venture capital company that invests in passionate, smart and nice entrepreneurs who are launching game-changing tech startups in the sports tech, esports and sports betting industries.

SeventySix Capital’s Athlete Venture Group allows players to invest, learn, and work directly with top sports tech startups and entrepreneurs. The firm aims to bridge the gap between athletes, entrepreneurs, and investors by creating opportunities for athletes to become tech investors and for entrepreneurs to access the financial and social capital that professional athletes have to offer.

Additionally, SeventySix Capital has a strategic partnership with Rubicon Talent, a sports marketing and talent agency based in New York City with a wide range of clients including NFL and NBA stars, Hall of Famers, MVPs, Heisman Trophy winners, Olympic icons, media personalities, and celebrity chefs.