Scope: Sports analytics is broken up into two main categories: Data Analytics, and Data Application. 

Data Analytics includes not only processing of the collected data, but also includes synchronizing data from multiple data sources using a time-code.  Data Analytics also includes acknowledgement of events and predictions using trends in the data, such as predicting when a time-out will be called. 

Data Application focuses on applications with analyzed data.  This category includes broadcast enhancement, advertisements, fantasy apps, and statistics for use in coaching or training. Even though sports betting is an important aspect, it is not included in this sector, but in a separate, dedicated sector.

Data Collection is not included in this analysis.  This category contains monitoring athlete performance and tracking player positions at practice and at games.  This category is not included because the focus of the sector is on analyzing data, not where the data comes from.

Tags and their meaning:

Data Analytics

• Telemetry Analytics – Documents which teach analyzing RFID or other tracking data
• Image/Video Analytics – Documents which teach analyzing video data for purposes such as object identification or tracking the flight of a projectile
• Physiological Analytics – Documents which teach analyzing motion capture data or swing using accelerometers or other non-visual sensors
• Synchronization – Documents which teach blending together two or more inputs and synchronizing them using a common time code
• Predictive Analytics – Documents which teach prediction of object trajectories, performance statistics, ad visibility, or time-outs
• Events – Documents which teach detecting when an event, such as the beginning of a play or crossing a finish line, occurs

Data Applications

• Broadcast Enhancement – Documents which teach techniques to improve video or audio quality by filtering out noise or refining areas of interest, also includes advertisements and digital additions to enhance viewer’s experience such as the inserted yellow first down line
• Training/Coaching – Documents which teach programs which collect and display statistics for athlete performance, these programs can be used to recruit, coach, or even just improve player performance
• Fantasy – Documents which teach apps related to fantasy football

Big Picture:

Unlike many traditional industries struggling to adapt to modern technology, the world of sports has embraced technological progress and is at the cutting edge of innovation. With player tracking, continuous biometric analysis, and real-time statistical updates, the athletic community has access to more information than ever before.  Not only are the players better trained than ever, but also fan experiences have improved dramatically as well.  Coaches and other supporting staff can leverage more data for player training and monitoring. Dedicated fans are able to track every conceivable statistic of their favorite players.  The sports industry continues to evolve with advancements in different technologies, such as information technology, telecommunications, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence.