The Famous Group and LA Clippers engage fans in-venue with with 3D projection mapping pre-game open

Cristina Blanaru Digital & Media, Innovation

NBA’s Los Angeles Clippers and integrated production company The Famous Group worked together to create a 3D projection mapping pre-game open that literally breaks the boundaries of video projection on the court.  This is an example of how pro teams are using technology to engage fans in-venue and generate excitement before tip-off.

In addition featuring a dazzling edit of game-action highlights and graphics, this first-of-a-kind open coordinated custom lighting and costume design, the Clippers Spirit Dance Team and LED balls that appear to be propelled from the court directly into the cheering crowd.

The projection was first used by LA Clippers for their game against the Washington Wizards, which took place at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on March 20th.

We wanted to provide the Clippers with an explosive opening video that takes court projection to the next level.  The combination of our big 3D animation coupled with the physical LED balls allow fans to literally become part of the show

Andrew Isaacson,

Executive Producer The Famous Group

The Famous Group pioneered the use of 3D projection video in basketball with the New York Knicks in 2011, and has also developed 3D mapped content for the Philadelphia 76ers and Atlanta Hawks.  The company also does a range of exciting in-venue content and develops social media software for other pro teams including the Brooklyn Nets, Indiana Pacers, Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys, New York Rangers, San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays, as well as at high-visibility events such as NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four, ESPN Winter X Games, Churchill Downs and a decade worth of Super Bowls.

Credits for Los Angeles Clippers 3D Court Projection Mapping

Los Angeles Clippers

  • President, Business Operations: Gillian Zucker
  • Vice President, Marketing: Matt Paye
  • Game Entertainment Director: Marianne Bogoyevac
  • Spirit Dance Team Director: Audrea Harris

The Famous Group, LA/NY

  • Executive Creative Director: Greg Harvey
  • Executive Producer: Andrew Isaacson
  • Creative Director: Hemu Karadkar
  • Managing Director: David Kwan
  • Producer: Brandon Grabowski
  • Producer: Ben Baisden
  • Editor: Steve Davis
  • Designers/Animators: Mike Cahill, Tyler Hayward
  • Designers: Jose Guardado, Tin Tran
  • Animators: James Kim, Josh Pierce, Troy Chrisman
  • Live Video Capture & Editing: Steve Davis, Tony Rago

Sound Design: 740 Sound

  • Owner: Scott Ganary
  • Producer: Jeff Martin
  • Designer: Chris Pinkston

Court Projection: Benchmark Productions

  • Consultants: Chris Tardiff and Josh Bachman

Arena Support: AEG Worldwide

  • Director: Wade Loewe
  • Lighting Designer: Tad Inferrera

Music: DJ Snake, Lil Jon

LED balls: Chaos