Alibaba Cloud Announces Multiyear Collaboration with NBA China to Reimagine Fan Engagement with AI
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Alibaba Cloud and NBA China sign a multiyear deal to power AI-driven fan experiences, including a Qwen-based model and Real-Time 360 Replay.
MACAO, CHINA, Oct. 9, 2025 – Alibaba Cloud and NBA China have signed a multiyear collaboration that makes Alibaba Cloud the Official Cloud Computing and AI Partner of NBA China, with plans to weave large-model AI into the league’s digital products for fans in China.
Under the agreement, Alibaba Cloud will develop a proprietary AI model for NBA China based on Alibaba’s Qwen foundation models. Fine-tuned on the league’s digital assets, the model is slated to deliver real-time highlights, historical data, player insights, and interactive discussions inside the NBA App in China.
The partners also plan to debut an AI-driven Real-Time 360 Replay at The NBA China Games 2025 in Macao, using algorithms that track player movements and generate spherical, high-quality frames to spotlight key plays.
Fans will see additional activations around the China Games: at NBA House, visitors can create personalized NBA-themed avatars and generate iconic commentary clips in their own replicated voice via Qwen-powered tools.
Beyond fan-facing features, NBA China will host its app, official China website and mini-programs on Alibaba Cloud infrastructure, and use the provider’s analytics to produce data-driven engagement insights. Alibaba consumer apps Quark and Tongyi (Qwen) App will serve as Official Marketing Partners.
The announcement was made ahead of preseason games between the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns in Macao on Oct. 10 and Oct. 12.
