The Toronto Raptors are making a splash this season—not on the court, but in how they are preparing for future games. They are training in the ASB GlassFloor Athletes Lab in Orlando, a sports facility with cutting-edge LED flooring technology that is changing basketball training. This state-of-the-art court, which has been called the coolest basketball court ever built, is setting a new standard for the NBA and for the future of basketball.
The ASB GlassFloor is unlike any normal hardwood court. It contains millions of embedded LEDs beneath a safety glass surface that can change its appearance in a dynamic manner. This enables the Raptors to mimic playing in numerous different environments by duplicating any NBA arena or competition court in an instant, such as NBA Cup courts.
One of its most striking aspects is the interactive coaching. Coaches can actually draw plays on court in real-time, and in a way that is easy for players to see and apply. Beyond that, the court has real-time player performance tracking, providing feedback on players’ speed, stamina, and power—something that can be used to optimize individual training programs.
For a team like the Raptors, who are struggling this season, cutting-edge tech such as the ASB GlassFloor could be a welcome boost. With a training center that can simulate varied game environments, players can better acclimatize to real game conditions. Other teams, such as the Charlotte Hornets, are already using the tech in their training regimens.
This is in line with other advancements in the league. For instance, Golden State Warriors have used robots to bring balls to Stephen Curry for shooting practice. With increased reliance on technology, the NBA is heading towards a future in which data analytics and smart training centers are part of improving performance.
The ASB GlassFloor is not merely a cosmetic feature—it has a direct positive influence on player performance and safety. Unlike hardwood, the glass surface is designed to be more elastic, easing joint stress and reducing risks for injury. A good hold is maintained with a particular dot finish to prevent slippage and friction burns.
One other major plus is customizability. LED tech allows for easy alteration of the court design in an instant, changing logos, color palettes, and configurations to meet different training needs. Even the floor’s longevity is impressive with a 70-year lifespan—longer and more cost-efficient than with traditional timber courts.
As a spectator experience, ASB GlassFloor enhances game experience with animated game statistics and dynamic video messages. This interactivity provides a new level to a sport, making a game more visually appealing to spectators.
