Courtside Post

by Matt Sweet

It was only a matter of time. The invention of High Definition television hinted at the idea, but we would never speak of it. I mean impossible, right? 3-D is only for the movies. Big, I-Max, mega blockbuster movies, with those weird paper red and blue glasses that constantly itch your nose and make things thrown directly towards the camera seem like they’re about to hit you in the face. The concept of 3-D television is one that has been stewing for decades, but for the most part has remained mutually exclusive from sports. That is, until now.

by Spencer Loomis

Direct TV and ESPN are already the leaders in the sports programming industry. Together the companies are set to launch the first ever 3D sports network this June. ESPN 3D will feature at least 85 live sporting events during its first year beginning with the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The channel will air up to 25 live World Cup matches like fans have never seen before kicking off with a match between Mexico and host country South Africa on June 11.

by Alex Simon

With the news that Panasonic and Best Buy are joining up to showcase 3D television technology, the minds of many a sports fan began to envision a world in which 3D technology is available in living rooms for their next Super Bowl party. Panasonic’s deal with Best Buy comes on the heels of Samsung and Sony in laying out 3D television plans.

by James Robles

The next wave of home entertainment has risen high and ominous outside American doorsteps, and in 3D no less. If a 60-inch, high-def flat-screen wasn’t enough to persuade your friends that “game day should be held at my house”, your problems have just begun. It now seems a worthy host will need to provide 3D glasses alongside the chips and dip.

by Eric Goodman

When the reported $240+ million 3-D animated action epic film Avatar opened in theaters last week it exposed the world to a totally innovative technique in how three-dimensional images were captured and presented for the movie screen.

The 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa will be offered in stereoscopic 3D.

3D, not HD, is the future of sports entertainment. However, if not executed appropriately, the cutting edge viewing experience can actually backfire on the teams and leagues anxious to show off the technology.