Big 12 Teases Glass, LED-Embedded Courts for CBB Conference Tournaments in Video

With the concept having been utilized by FIBA, the NBA and others, the Big 12 is bringing a glass court to its men's and women's basketball tournaments.

"Our goal at the Big 12 is simple: keep raising the bar," Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark said. "Elevating our league's profile and adding real value to our programs requires a willingness to push boundaries. Last year, the introduction of the XII pattern on our tournament court did exactly that, and this year we're taking the next step with ASB GlassFloor.

"This technology represents the future and bringing it to our basketball tournaments reinforces our commitment to innovation, positioning the Big 12 as a different league and national leader in elevating the game."

FIBA first used the ASB GlassFloor in the 2023 U19 Women's Basketball World Cup. The NBA brought it to All-Star Weekend in 2024 as well. Beyond heightening the fan experience, the court reacted to in-game events such as made baskets.

The Big 12 said the specialized glass floor will show "shot charts" and "immersive animations" during games along with "dynamic court designs."

The idea makes obvious sense as a way to appeal to a younger demographic. It's almost like bringing a game of NBA 2K to life. When a league like the NBA has so many specialized court designs, teams could seamlessly switch between looks depending on the occasion.

But it's also easy to picture the whole thing being a little too distracting if applied in the wrong way. There's already a lot happening on the court at a given moment.

Kansas men's coach Bill Self and Baylor's women's coach Nicki Collen both offered their endorsements.

"I'm excited about it," Self said. "I'm an old school guy, but this has me thinking of new school ways, and from what I've seen and heard, this is the wave of the future. I think it'll be great."

Collen added that the glass court "was an incredible experience for our players" when the Bears practiced on it in November.

"The court is not only visually impressive, but it plays well and represents where our sport is headed," she said. "To be a part of this kind of future driven momentum in collegiate athletics is special, and I am thankful to Commissioner Yormark and the Big 12 Conference for pushing our league forward and embracing bold ideas to elevate the game. All eyes will be on Kansas City, and the visibility it brings to our league is something to look forward to."

If nothing else, the glass court should bring more attention to the Big 12 tournament. Should fans and players provide positive reviews, the glass court could take another step toward wider adoption in U.S. hoops.