NBA team used AI when selecting in the draft

The machine selected the shooter

In the center of the story is the young basketball player Kon Knueppel. According to reports, the vice president of basketball analysis of the Charlotte Hornets revealed that it was the AI ​​system that provided them with the key strategy for drafting him. Instead of relying on traditional scouting, the algorithm analyzed advanced parameters and recognized Knueppel as a player with elite shooting mechanics, a high index of basketball intelligence and exceptional reaction speed. And judging by his success so far, it seems that the machine was right. Knueppel is moreć at Duke College, he was one of the most efficient shooters in the country, and his debut season in the NBA confirmed the predictions of artificial intelligence. He broke several rookie records for the number of three-pointers made and posted one of the most statistically efficient rookie seasons in league history, making him a leading contender for the ‘Rookie of the Year’ award. So, it seems that the Hornets were not guided only by feeling or statistics visible to the naked eye, but relied on an in-depth analysis of the algorithm that recognized Knueppel’s ideal amplification.

I’m skeptical

Although the story sounds revolutionary, the reactions of the audience are far from unanimous approval. Many followers expressed skepticism and cynicism. “Big news, a white boy from a white college can shoot well, hire me instead of AI,” one user said sarcastically, while another was more direct: “We need to stop this AI bullshit.” Such comments show that part of the audience still believes in the human factor and intuition in sports and looks with distrust at the ever-increasing role of technology.

In the end, it remains an open question whether the Hornets’ move is the real start of a new era in which algorithms will assemble teams or just a skillfully executed marketing ploy. One thing is certain: the discussion about the role of artificial intelligence in sports has only just begun, and the outcome of Knueppel’s career will be followed with special interest.