PTI Digital has been appointed by Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL) to deliver a technology roadmap for the redevelopment of Derwent Entertainment Centre in Hobart, Tasmania, which is set to house a newly-formed NBL team.
PTI will work with the NBL to identify the technology needs of the venue ahead of the Tasmania JackJumpers’ debut in the competition during the 2021-22 season. It marks PTI Digital’s first client in the Asia-Pacific region.
PTI will also provide clarity on the digital-first fan experience for the Derwent Entertainment Centre, which is currently undergoing its second and major construction stage. PTI’s APAC team, including regional general manager Corey Kirby and head of venue tech Ryan Benson, will be supported by the company’s global venue tech team to deliver the technology roadmap for the 5,000-seat venue.
PTI’s immediate responsibility will focus on a fast-paced delivery of the venue tech project, ensuring the arena is ready to be operational in August ahead of the NBL season opener.
The state government in Tasmania will invest a further A$15m (£8.4m/€9.7m/$11.5m) into the project, bringing the total government spend to A$56m. It is hoped the renovation will help transform the arena into a world-class venue for hosting global events.
Brad Joyner, chief commercial officer of the NBL, said: “PTI Digital will bring vital clarity around venue tech requirements for the DEC. We will benefit from their global expertise and ensure we are ready to go for the JackJumpers’ first NBL season as well as having a world-class stadium for other major events.”
Kirby added: “We are thrilled to be working with the NBL on delivering this significant project and creating a venue to be proud of. We have considerable international experience in delivering best-in-class venue technology for innovative stadia and arena projects and we are excited to form this relationship in Australia. The DEC will be a superb venue for the JackJumpers and we’re looking forward to seeing them out there for their first season in October.”
Tasmania has not had an NBL team since the Hobart Devils folded in 1996. The JackJumpers will become the 10th team in the competition.
PTI last week signed a five-year deal with Oak View Group to become the sports and entertainment company’s strategic consultancy partner for the arenas in its international regions. The agreement will initially focus on the Co-op Live project at Manchester’s Etihad Campus, for which PTI will provide venue-related expertise alongside technology, digital and data consultancy services.
Image: PTI Digital
