How to be an NBA virtual fan? A guide to NBA virtual fan sign-up

NBA resumed 2019-20 season on July 30 (July 31) amid ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. league will be hosting all games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Players and or employees are staying at NBA bubble to prevent spread of COVID-19. However, for health safety reasons, fans will be allowed to attend games. To make up for absence of an audience, Microsoft and NBA have teamed up for an NBA virtual fan sign up, where screens of fans will be displayed on screen.

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How to be an NBA virtual fan? NBA virtual fan sign up details

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Toger mode NBA: What is NBA virtual fan sign up initiative?

As a result of Microsoft-NBA partnership, fans will be shown on a 17-foot LED screen, which has been placed courtside at NBA bubble. Along with showing fans on screen, y will also remove ir background, making sure virtual fans blend in and feel more real. league and Microsoft will ensure that fans who misbehave or are abusive will be kicked out with an eject button. 

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How to be an NBA virtual fan? Steps to join NBA virtual fan sign up 

1. Download Microsoft Teams app
2. Go to 'Toger Mode'
3. Login through username and password
4. Click on Calendar tab on left side of Teams window
5. Click 'Join' on Game meeting to join crowd
6. Make sure that both camera and audio are turned on

Microsoft teams NBA: More details and NBA virtual fan cost

Any fan can sign up to become a virtual fan. fans will be expected to join 30 minutes before tip-off and will be allowed to cheer for ir team. Teams and league are encouraging fans to cheer for team while wearing jerseys and pretending that y are at a regular game. 

Or questions regarding NBA virtual fan feature

1. How soon are fans required to sign in?

Fans will be required to sign in at least 30 minutes before game begins through Microsoft Teams NBA feature. After y log in, fans do t need to be around for all pregame events. However, Microsoft can n identify any issues fans have during 30-minute period. 

2. Should fans wear jerseys for game?

Fans are encourd to wear ir team's gear – jerseys, shirts and hats. Fans have also been asked to t wear items that could disturb anyone's viewing experience. 

3. Can multiple fans watch game and participate?

At a time only fans who have signed a waiver can broadcast mselves during game. If fans sign up in advance, y will be allowed to switch spots during game. 

4. Can fans step away from computer?

Just like a regular game, fans can leave ir computer for some time like when people use  concession stand or restrooms. However, fans are requested to return back after a short interval to avoid any technical issues. 

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In her statement to CNet, NBA Head of Next Gen Telecast Sara Zuckert stated that ir goal is to "create an enjoyable and immersive experience where fans can eng with each or and maintain a sense of community as we restart season under se unique and challenging circumstances.” Jared Sparto, head of Microsoft 365, also spoke about new fan experience being first NBA-Microsft production product. He added that it will give players an opportunity to see fans' real-time reaction. 

To enhance experience, ESPN and Turner Sports will work on new camera angles for fans viewing from home, including microphones on court which will pick up sneaker squeaks and ball's dribble at a regular game. Fans will be allowed to cheer virtually through NBA app, which will appear on video boards during game with various animations.

NBA and Microsft signed a multi-year deal earlier this year. As per deal, Microsoft is NBA's official AI, cloud and laptop partner. This is first example of ir partnership and an indication of what could be in store for future. NBA will also be seen using Microsoft’s Azure platform to broadcast live and on-demand basketball games paired with personalised content.

(Im Courtesy: Microsoft official website)