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NBA speaks directly to fans through Facebook Live campaign

Author

Brielle Jaekel
The National Basketball Association is leveraging Facebook's live streaming feature, creating a direct connection between players and fans through Q&As and exclusive content.

Facebook Live is a streaming feature in which brands can share live video feed to followers and the NBA is using it to connect to fans with its most popular player. Big names in basketball such as Russell Westbrook, Andrew Drummond and Paul George, have taken a seat in NBA?s onsite booth to speak to fans directly and answer questions submitted through social media. 

?Facebook Live was another great way for us to bring the excitement of NBA All-Star in Toronto to our fans around the world,? said Melissa Rosenthal Brenner, NBA Senior Vice President, Digital Media.?

Facebook fans

NBA game locations are being equipped with a social booth in which players can connect with fans through Facebook Live and interact on social media. For instance, Indiana Pacers player Paul George was featured on a feed answering questions such as ?what is your favorite animated movie,? to which he answered the Lion King and ?what historical figure?s entourage would you like to be a part of,? prompting him to say Martin Luther King Jr. 


The NBA is also airing press conferences for the All-Star events as well as pre and post-game interviews. 

Mobile streaming live
Facebook Live appeals to other big brands interested in connecting with fans. For instance, Apparel and accessories designer Kate Spade wants to innovate the live streaming field by taking a high-quality approach to its NYFW runway show airing on Facebook Live (see more).

The National Football League similarly furthered its content on streaming platforms, cognizant of the growing demand for standalone viewing services on mobile devices, meaning advertisers must adapt their Super Bowl strategies to include these platforms or risk being left behind (see more).  

?With player interviews, press conferences, and unique behind-the-scenes content, Facebook users were granted special access to one of our most anticipated events of the year,? Ms. Brenner said.