MILWAUKEE — Only a handful of teams in the NBA offer a piece of technology that allows blind or low-vision fans to follow along with the game. The Milwaukee Bucks is one of them. 

What You Need To Know

The Milwaukee Bucks offer a piece of technology that allows blind or low-vision fans to follow along with the game

The device uses trackable vibrations and real-time audio, so fans can know what’s happening on the court

Steve Heesen relies on the announcer, a loved one and his imagination to guide him through the game. He said the device is a game-changer

“It’s been great,” said Heesen. “Being able to follow along on the court and follow along the game with everyone else.”

The Bucks recently acquired five tactile broadcast devices from “OneCourt.” It allows fans to follow along through touch. 

The device uses trackable vibrations and real-time audio, so fans can know what’s happening on the court. That includes where the ball is, if someone scores, or if there’s a timeout. 

Steve Heesen is a lifelong Bucks fan, but he’s only been to a handful of games. He is blind and said his experience is a little different from the average fan.

Heesen relies on the announcer, a loved one, and his imagination to guide him through the game. He said the device is a game-changer.  

“It’s all imagination in my mind, but now I can feel it under my fingertips,” said Heesen. “It’s been great. Being able to follow along on the court and follow along the game with everyone else.” 

Rodrick Cureton is the impact and culture manager with the Bucks. He said this innovative technology creates a more accessible experience for fans. 

“We want to make sure every fan can experience the game at a high level, and we want to make sure everyone can use them who needs them,” said Cureton. 

Heesen said it’s more than just a basketball game; it’s feeling included.  

“The ability to be independent and autonomous and be able to follow things on my own and get the information when I want and not have to rely on other people if I don’t choose to,” said Heesen. 

He said he hopes this technology can expand to more than professional sports games. Heesen said he would enjoy following along during his son’s high school basketball games. 

The tablets are free of charge. Fans can request to rent one through the Bucks App or online. Then it can be picked up from Guest Services. 

The Bucks are hoping to add more devices.