This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Alibaba (BABA, Financials) announced a multi-year partnership with NBA China to develop new artificial intelligence and cloud-based tools designed to enhance live viewing and fan experiences.
The deal comes as the NBA returns to China for the first time in six years, with the Brooklyn Netsowned by Alibaba Chairman Joe Tsaiset to play regular-season games in Macau this weekend.
Under the agreement, NBA China will use Alibaba’s Qwen foundation models to power personalized AI features for fans. The league will also host its Chinese digital platforms, including the NBA app and official website, on Alibaba Cloud. The company will roll out a real-time 360-degree replay system for games and provide data analytics through its cloud tools.
Alibaba’s consumer apps, including Quark and Tongyi, will become official NBA China marketing partners. Tsai said the collaboration reflects how AI and cloud technology can connect players and fans in ways never seen before.
The Qwen AI models have been a key driver of Alibaba’s recent tech expansion and investor optimism around its AI spending plans. Analysts said the deal could deepen Alibaba’s presence in China’s sports and entertainment tech market.