September 15, 2020
Boost increases data access and insights for players, scouts, and coaches
Green Bay, Wisconsin – TitletownTech today announced their investment in Boost Technology Inc., an early-stage tech company that brings machine learning and data analytics to college sports. Boost uses artificial intelligence and computer vision to capture, analyze, and explain complex data. The platform enables powerful data storytelling and customized insights that were previously limited to elite professional organizations with in-house data scientists.
Their proprietary technology enables coaches to answer difficult questions, uncover trends and opportunities, and make critical decisions about strategy and personnel. Boost uses deep learning algorithms that run on single-camera video footage and allows sports teams to leverage unique, custom data insights without purchasing and managing expensive in-venue camera systems or wearables.
“With the ever-changing landscape in sports, technology that can create efficient data channels for coaches and teams will be even more important. Boost is positioned to become a significant asset for coaches, conferences and leagues,” said Cordero Barkley, Partner at TitletownTech, former Division I basketball player and current TV/Radio sportscaster.
One of the top priorities for Boost is to explain complex data. To lead this development effort, Boost hired Jorge Costa, who previously led the Detroit Pistons’ analytics department. The platform connects machine learning insights to game footage and translates statistical models into written summaries and data visualizations. It changes the way that coaches consume video and data, bridging the gap between PhDs that generate the models and coaches that use the insights.
Today, coaching staffs spend countless hours and make thousands of guesses when evaluating teams and players during the scouting and recruiting processes. Boost allows coaches to challenge their observations and validate their assumptions with objective data. Access to data and insights will increase competition and parity across the collegiate sports landscape, and improve outcomes for athletes, coaches, and athletic programs. Long term, the platform creates a path for athletes to capture gains in their recruiting experience, transfer opportunities, and ongoing skills development.
“Team is everything, and for Boost, that includes our investors and early partners. It’s rare to see a Black founder and VC partner come together to build a tech partnership. Our team is mission-aligned, and I’m excited about our future,” said Mustafa Abdul-Hamid, Boost Co-founder & CEO.
Boost Technology, Inc. was founded by Mustafa Abdul-Hamid and Inga Nakhmanson in 2016. Abdul-Hamid is a former professional basketball player with a Master’s degree in International Policy from Stanford University and a BA from UCLA, where he also played collegiate basketball. Between UCLA and Stanford, Abdul-Hamid played professional basketball in Europe in Serbia, Slovenia, France and Germany. Inga is a two-time founder with an exit under her belt. She’s an augmented reality and computer vision expert.
About Boost Technology, Inc. Founded by Mustafa Abdul-Hamid and Inga Nakhmanson, Boost automatically captures player action data from raw video footage, uses AI court mapping to track players, and identifies player actions with deep learning and modern computer vision, saving coaching staff hundreds of hours and thousands of guesses. boostsport.ai
About TitletownTech Formed out of a partnership between the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft, TitletownTech builds, enables and invests in early-stage and existing businesses. The organization identifies solutions, develops startups, and funds entrepreneurs across five key verticals: sports, media and entertainment; digital health; agriculture, water & environment; advanced manufacturing; and supply chain technology. Through a three-part structure, TitletownTech enables innovation, exploration, and disruption to address industry challenges. The Innovation Lab identifies and explores digital, transformative solutions. The Venture Studio develops creative market solutions with new and existing startups. The Venture Fund invests in high-growth scalable ventures that leverage the region’s strengths. titletowntech.com.