Avatars Hit the Hardwood

With the playoffs in full swing, the National Basketball Association is expecting its ambitious jump in to the virtual world to be a slam dunk with residents of Second Life.

On Monday, the NBA announced the launch of NBA Headquarters, the league's own private interactive virtual island. An avatar of NBA Commissioner David Stern unveiled the destination, which features, among other things, broadband video of classic games and highlights. Users can also have their avatars' pictures taken with the league's championship trophy.

"Bringing the NBA to the virtual world provides us with a new and innovative platform to reach our fans and the millions of residents in Second Life," said Stern in a press release. "The NBA Headquarters creates an interactive worldwide community where fans can come together, engage with our game, and most importantly, share in their passion for the NBA." ...