KANSAS CITY, MO – The Big 12 Conference is set to revolutionize the college basketball experience, announcing today that its men’s and women’s basketball tournaments next month will be played on a high-tech glass floor embedded with LED technology. This marks the first time such a court will be used in official competition in the United States.
Developed by German firm ASB, the “GlassFloor” isn’t simply a visual spectacle. It’s a dynamic surface capable of displaying data-driven graphics, advertising, and even interactive games for fans during timeouts. The court’s construction features layers of safety glass combined with an aluminum and steel spring-action design, mimicking the flexibility of traditional hardwood. A ceramic coating with laser-etched dots ensures consistent grip for players, eliminating the “dead spots” often found on natural wood floors.
The innovation isn’t entirely new to the world of basketball. The floor has already seen action at the 2024 NBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis and in European arenas, including Bayern Munich’s BMW Park arena. Notably, University of Arizona freshman Ivan Kharchenkov had the opportunity to practice on the surface during his time with Bayern Munich last season, according to a UA publicist.
The NBA itself is exploring wider applications of the technology, even taking a minority stake in ASB’s American subsidiary, according to Sportico. This investment signals a broader industry interest in integrating advanced visual technology into the game.
The Big 12’s decision to adopt the GlassFloor is part of a larger trend toward embracing innovation. Last year, the conference debuted a branded court design featuring the roman numerals “XII” in a pattern that sparked considerable discussion. According to Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark, both initiatives demonstrate the league’s “willingness to push boundaries.”
“This year we’re taking the next step,” Yormark said in a statement released Wednesday. “This technology represents the future and bringing it to our basketball tournaments reinforces our commitment to innovation, positioning the Big 12 as a different league and national leader in elevating the game.”
Reaction from within the coaching ranks has been largely positive, even from those traditionally inclined toward the game’s established norms. Kansas men’s coach Bill Self, known for his old-school approach, acknowledged the potential of the new technology. “I’m an old school guy, but this has me thinking of new school ways,” Self said. “And from what I’ve seen and heard, Here’s the wave of the future.”
Baylor women’s coach Nicki Collen echoed that sentiment, stating that her team had a chance to practice on the court in November and found it to be an “incredible experience.” Collen added, “The court is not only visually impressive, but it plays well and represents where our sport is headed.”
The implementation of the GlassFloor raises questions about game-day operations and potential rule adjustments. One concern, raised by a commenter on a Texas Tech fan forum, centers around maintaining consistency in graphics throughout a game. A new rule has reportedly been established stating that whatever graphic is displayed at the start of a game must continue throughout the entirety of the contest. This is likely to prevent teams, like Texas A&M, from utilizing potentially disruptive or distracting visuals during gameplay.
The Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments are scheduled to take place in Kansas City, Missouri, next month. The introduction of the ASB GlassFloor promises to deliver a unique and technologically advanced experience for players and fans alike, potentially setting a new standard for college basketball events.
