The Utah Jazz announced Thursday their plans to host a “first-of-its-kind” opportunity for fans to own a digital collectible for the team.
The first-ever digital token program will let fans access a unique live experience with Jazz icons.
The JAZZXR program combines the team’s first-ever digitally designed Non-Fungible Token, or NFT, with access to a live “meet-and-greet” experience.
An NFT is a virtual tradable item that can be paired with real-life items such as art, music and access. They can also exist as purely digital entities. They’re similar to buying “valuable” or “rare” virtual assets in a video game, according to the team.
Using Virtual Reality technology such as “Oculus” headsets, fans will be able to join in on the blend of virtual and real-world take on the Jazz’s lockerroom. The interactions will be hosted by team owner Ryan Smith.
“I am ecstatic to be able to offer such a unique and groundbreaking experience for the Utah Jazz fan base and beyond,” Smith said in a recent press release. “This NFT program is our opportunity to show the world that technology is thriving in our state, and we intend to be on the forefront of innovation as we move forward.”
Team officials said the digital NFT will be available to the public via the Rarible marketplace starting at 10 a.m. Tuesday, September 7. Sales will conclude on September 15 at 11:59 p.m.
Only 30 NFTs will be available in the initial offering.
Information on how to complete a purchase of the NFT can be found here.
This is the first drop in a series of NFT collectibles from the Jazz, who are among a select group of NBA teams to mint and release their own NFTs.
According to the team, a portion of the proceeds from this 2021-22 program will benefit non-profit organizations in Utah.
The creation of a virtually shared Jazz locker room is a first in the sports industry, according to the Jazz.
NFT owners will have access to a room that mirrors the actual locker room at Vivint Arena but with virtually enhanced physical reality with bold colors, surprise elements, and an insider’s view.
All participants in the JAZZXR program will have lifelike avatars, including a host Jazz character, who will bring people from the basketball court to the locker room for real-time conversations and virtual interactions.
More information can be found here.
