Disney has released more details about attractions and exhibits to be offered at the under-construction NBA Experience at Disney Springs.
Built on what was once the home to DisneyQuest, the NBA Experience aims to offer different kinds of interactive, video game-like activities, all centered around basketball. According to Disney’s press release, visitors will be able to perform slam dunks (on adjustable height baskets), recreate the moment when players are selected at the NBA Draft, and run through shooting and passing drills like they’re at the NBA Combine, complete with their own scouting report.
“Developed with the NBA, and inspired by the league’s 29 arenas around the country, NBA Experience will highlight the heart-pounding action and excitement of the NBA world,” said Stan Dodd, executive producer at Walt Disney Imagineering. “From training simulations and clock-racing competitions to fan-favorite NBA moments – we’re bringing new experiences and thrilling games to life to make fans truly feel like a star player.”
The destination, developed by Disney Imagineers in collaboration with the NBA, will include other activities ranging from more basketball skill evaluations (like testing guests ball-handling with “an interactive trainer”) to less conventional games (like a challenge involving “an oversized slingshot” to launch basketballs).
For those who aren’t in the mood to take to the court, there will be options like an NBA and WNBA trivia contest with up to 25 participants and a “team locker room” with up-to-date statistics on top players. There will also be a NBA store with exclusive merchandise designed by Disney.
“The Walt Disney Imagineering team has unparalleled expertise in creating best-in-class attractions for the millions of guests who visit their parks each year,” said Salvatore LaRocca, the NBA’s president of global partnerships. “The NBA Experience will be a destination for basketball fans from all over the world, and we are excited to partner with Disney to bring new and lifelong fans closer to the game.”
Like DisneyQuest, tickets will be required for the NBA Experience, though Disney has not revealed any information on prices.
The NBA Experience is scheduled to open sometime in the summer of 2019. It will be joined in its new building by City Works Eatery & Pour House, an 8,632-square-foot sports bar and restaurant focused on “classic American food” along with three full-service bars.